Big Shoulders Fund, a nonprofit committed to making a high-quality, values-based education accessible to students in underserved communities, has presented a $10,000 award to Mrs. Olga Martinez, a dedicated educator at Epiphany Catholic School in Little Village in recognition of her significant impact and contributions to her school, students, and community. The new Impact Educator of the Year Awards honored five teachers within the Big Shoulders Fund Plus network. The award provides a one-time financial award of $10,000 to a Big Shoulders Fund Plus teacher who has made a lasting impression on their students and has demonstrated a dedicated commitment to their school community. Teachers are nominated by their principal, selected by a committee, and have committed to remain at their school. Nominees must have made a significant, positive impact on their school community, and have taught at their school for no less than two full years prior to the nomination. Martinez is a role model for Epiphany Catholic School students and school community. She maintains high expectations for her students, has great relationships with school families, and is a trusted staff member by her peers, uplifting all around her. The Big Shoulders Fund Plus network launched in 2020 with a $70-million commitment to 30 schools to invest in and uplift Big Shoulders Funds’ highest-need schools and communities.