Montini Catholic in Lombard awarded ​t​eacher and coach, ​E​ric Brechtel, the Lasallian college preparatory high school's Lasallian Educator Award for 202​6.  The honor was presented at their Celebration of Excellence Awards ceremony on Friday, May 15th. Each year the honor goes to a faculty member who represents Montini's Lasallian spirit of education by 'touching the hearts' of their students and colleagues.  Brechtel was chosen for his dedication to Montini Catholic, his commitment to its students and the lasting impact he has made both in and out of the classroom.

"Mr. Brechtel is someone whose passion, energy and commitment to students have shaped the Montini Catholic experience for more than a decade," said Montini President Kevin Beirne. "As he completes his 13th year at Montini Catholic, he has become a trusted teacher, dedicated coach, mentor, and leader whose impact can be felt across our entire school community."

Brechtel began his career at Montini working in the Admissions Department before transitioning into the classroom, where he has taught Contemporary U.S. History, U.S. History​ and Marketing as a member of our Social Studies Department. His colleagues describe him as an “idea guy”- someone who is always eager to collaborate, innovate and find engaging ways to connect students to learning. Whether helping plan department initiatives, highlighting important moments in history or brainstorming ways to strengthen school culture, he brings enthusiasm, creativity, and positivity to every conversation.

In the classroom, his greatest gift is the rapport he builds with students. He has a unique ability to make learning engaging, relevant​ and fun. Students especially look forward to his Marketing final project, where they work to create and market a sports team - an experience that reflects both his creativity and his passion for helping students think critically while enjoying the learning process.
Beyond the classroom, Brechtel's influence has been extraordinary. He has served for many years as Senior Class Moderator and as Coordinator of Student Activities, helping create meaningful traditions, memorable experiences and a strong sense of community for countless students.

As a coach, his leadership has elevated Montini athletics to historic levels. He has served as Head Coach of Boys Track & Field for ​t​hirteen seasons and Head Coach of Boys Cross Country for the past nine seasons, after previously serving four years as an assistant coach. Under his leadership, Boys Cross Country has qualified for the IHSA State Finals as a team in each of the last three seasons - the second, third, and fourth appearances in school history. This past season, the team captured both an IHSA Regional Championship and an IHSA Sectional Championship for the first time ever, and earned the first state plaque in program history. In Track & Field, he has coached more than 50 state qualifiers throughout his career.

"While the accomplishments are impressive, what truly makes him deserving of this honor is the way he lives out the Lasallian mission each and every day," said ​President Beirne. "He builds relationships rooted in respect and encouragement. He creates community. He challenges students to grow while making them feel valued and supported. He gives generously of his time and talents, always placing students at the center of his work."

Montini Catholic is a Lasallian college preparatory high school located in Lombard, Illinois (DuPage County).