In her hometown of Momence, Jill Lincoln’s name is synonymous with resilience, innovation, and dedication. As the Tech Specialist for the entire Momence School District, her journey from a secretary to a pivotal figure in technology management is nothing short of inspiring. Born and raised in Momence, Jill’s roots run deep, making her a cornerstone of both the school and the community.

Jill’s connection to Momence is lifelong, having been born and raised in the town after her parents moved from Indiana nearly 60 years ago. Her father’s job at the local newspaper, The Progress Reporter, eventually led to the family owning the paper, embedding the Lincolns deeply into the fabric of the community. “I grew up at the newspaper,” Jill recalls, “There’s not much I don’t know how to do there. I still attend school board meetings and handle tax information for them.”

Her transition into the school system began out of necessity when it became clear that the family business couldn’t support multiple full-time roles. In 2013, she started as a secretary at the junior high school. It was here that Jill’s journey into the tech world began, almost by accident. During a pilot program introducing Chromebooks to sixth graders, Jill found herself overwhelmed with repair requests. “I offhandedly told the tech department to just bring me the parts, and I’d fix them myself,” she laughs. To her surprise, one day she arrived at work to find a stack of parts waiting on her desk. Her first repair took two hours, but soon she became proficient, fixing devices in minutes and handling tech issues for the entire junior high.

Recognizing her knack for technology and problem-solving, the tech department began to rely on Jill more and more. Within a year, she was managing devices for multiple grades, alongside her secretarial duties. Her hard work and adaptability led to a promotion as the Secretary of the Technology Department, a role she has flourished in for the past five years. Today, she manages everything from Chromebook maintenance to state reporting, ensuring the seamless operation of tech resources across the district.

Despite her behind-the-scenes role, Jill’s impact is felt deeply by students and staff alike. “The relationships with the kids are huge,” she says. “You don’t realize how close you get to them and how much you miss them when they’re gone.” This connection to the students, combined with her technical expertise, has made Jill an indispensable part of the Momence School District.

Her role extends beyond mere technical support; she is a mentor, a friend, and a steady presence for students. In a district where many students face challenging home lives, Jill’s support can be a lifeline. “These kids need someone in their corner,” she emphasizes, reflecting on her relationships with students who continue to stay in touch after graduation.

Jill’s dedication isn’t confined to her professional life. Her commitment to her community is evident in her personal life as well. From coaching soccer to helping out at the family newspaper, Jill’s involvement in Momence is allencompassing. “I’ve done a lot,” she admits, “but it’s all worth it to see the impact on my community and the kids.”

When asked what advice she would give her younger self, Jill’s response is heartfelt and poignant: “Life is hard, but it’s also wonderful. Someday, you will be okay. You will come out on top.” This philosophy of perseverance and optimism is what drives Jill every day.

As she looks to the future, Jill’s focus remains steadfast on the present. Her goal is to continue supporting the students and staff of Momence School District, ensuring that the technology infrastructure not only meets their needs but also enriches their educational experience.

Jill Lincoln’s story is a testament to the power of dedication, adaptability, and the profound impact one person can have on an entire community. Through her work, she not only keeps the technology running smoothly but also fosters a sense of family and belonging that defines the Momence School District. In every Chromebook she repairs and every student she supports, Jill’s legacy of resilience and care continues to grow, making Momence a better place for all.