Shelby Curtis and Trisha Monke are more than just educators; they are dedicated advocates for the students of Mount Olive Schools. In their roles as the Student Services Coordinator and Student Support Specialist, respectively, these women work tirelessly to support the district’s young people, addressing everything from academic struggles to mental health challenges.

Mrs. Monke, who has been a Mount Olive resident since 1999, began her position at the high school in the 2023–24 school year. Her ties to the district run deep—both her sons are Mount Olive graduates. With a background as a child abuse and neglect caseworker for the state of Illinois, she brings a wealth of experience in crisis management and student advocacy to her role.

“I really enjoy working with high school students,” Mrs. Monke says. “I want them to know they have the potential to be successful—whatever that means for them.”

Her role, which includes academic advising, social and emotional support, career planning, and even crisis management, is as dynamic as the students she serves. From assisting eighth graders in their transition to high school to organizing field trips and classroom presentations, Mrs. Monke’s work is built on a foundation of individualized attention.

“I believe in meeting students where they are and helping them find their own paths,” she explains.

Ms. Curtis, in her district-wide role as Student Services Coordinator, focuses on behavior, mental health, and social-emotional learning for all students, from pre-K through 12th grade. Ms. Curtis’s weekly social-emotional lessons in classrooms provide students with critical life skills and a safe space to express themselves.

“These lessons give me a chance to connect with students every week,” Ms. Curtis shares. “I see it as a privilege to introduce concepts like emotional awareness and problem-solving—things that might not be discussed at home.”

Ms. Curtis’s passion for her work stems from her unique background. With bachelor’s degrees in criminology and psychology, she is currently pursuing a master’s in social work, blending her academic expertise with hands-on advocacy.

Her role goes beyond the classroom. Whether she’s responding to behavioral incidents, leading small-group sessions, or participating in student assistance committees, Ms. Curtis’s goal is always the same: to help students succeed.

“Advocacy is at the heart of what I do,” Ms. Curtis explains. “I’m constantly looking for ways to address the gaps in resources and support that our students need.”

The challenges these educators face are not small. Rural districts like Mount Olive often struggle with limited resources, transportation issues, and poverty—barriers that directly impact student success. Yet, both Ms. Curtis and Mrs. Monke are unwavering in their commitment to finding solutions.

“We try hard to ensure no one falls through the cracks,” Mrs. Monke says. “It’s not easy, but the teamwork here makes it possible.”

This teamwork is one of Mount Olive’s greatest strengths. As Mrs. Monke notes, the district’s small size allows teachers, administrators, and support staff to form close connections with students and their families. Greeting students by name, making positive phone calls home, and fostering open communication are just some of the ways they create a welcoming environment.

Ms. Curtis emphasizes the importance of building trust with students, especially in a community where struggles like food insecurity and homelessness are more common than some might expect.

“Being there for these kids—helping them feel seen and heard—that’s what makes this work so meaningful,” Ms. Curtis reflects.

Despite the obstacles, there are many victories to celebrate. The district’s partnership with Lincoln Land Community College offers students dual credit opportunities, giving them a head start on college or career pathways. Programs like the Student Assistance Program, which pairs struggling students with resources and support, are making tangible differences in academic success and attendance.

For both Mrs. Monke and Ms. Curtis, the rewards of their work far outweigh the challenges. “We don’t have to do this work; we get to,” Mrs. Monke says. “That mindset changes everything—for us and for the students.”

As they continue to advocate for Mount Olive’s students, Shelby Curtis and Trisha Monke are shaping not just individual futures but the future of the entire community. Their dedication and compassion exemplify the best of what education can achieve: empowering young people to overcome challenges and build brighter tomorrows.