Vienna High School -

Illinois Dual Credit Teacher of the Year, Vienna’s McMahan

Joseph McMahan, foreign language instructor at Vienna High School, has been named the Illinois Alliance of Concurrent Enrollment Partnerships (ILACEP) Dual Credit Teacher of the Year.

The statewide recognition honors educators who demonstrate exceptional commitment to student success while providing high-quality dual credit instruction that allows high school students to earn college credit before graduation.

Mr. McMahan serves as the college level Spanish language instructor at Vienna High. He has helped numerous students better understand the importance of being globally aware and equipped them with language skills while earning college credit, and preparing them for continued success in life after high school.

"I have immensely enjoyed my time teaching the dual credit courses from the two local colleges that are offered for students at Vienna High. For many years in Georgia, I always taught during the evenings and summers at the university and advanced placement Spanish in a high school during the day, so the offering of the college courses during a normal school day has been a blessing and allowed me to spend time with my family and to travel more," shared Mr. McMahan.

Superintendent Dr. Joshua Stafford shared, “Mr. McMahan is not only a master teacher, a master of his content, and an immersive practitioner of the Spanish language, he is also well respected by his students and peers and has created an atmosphere in which his classes, while rigorous, are sought after. We are incredibly proud to see him recognized at the state level with this well-deserved honor."

Rebecca Guest, Dean of Instruction, shared, “Mr. McMahan has been instrumental in growing the college level Spanish program, intentionally recruiting younger students and creating a strong pipeline that encourages continued participation and success. Through the strong relationships he builds with students and his unique ability to bring culture to life, he inspires students to continue their language studies beyond initial courses. His students have participated in cultural activities such as salsa dancing, playing soccer, dining at Mexican restaurants, and attending World Languages and Cultures Events.”

Principal John Giffin added “Through these immersive experiences, Mr. McMahan inspires students to embrace diversity, broaden their perspectives, and develop a lifelong appreciation for other cultures. His passion, innovation, and impact on students make him highly deserving of this recognition.”

The Illinois Alliance of Concurrent Enrollment Partnerships supports and promotes high-quality dual credit and concurrent enrollment programs throughout Illinois, recognizing educators who expand access to college-level learning while students are still in high school. McMahan's selection as Dual Credit Teacher of the Year highlights his dedication to educational excellence and his lasting impact on students across the region.