IEA Region 47

It is with great sadness that we share IEA President Al Llorens, our steadfast leader, has passed away at 73.

Al, who spent more than 30 years as a high school math teacher and head girls’ track and cross-country coach at Thornridge High School, had been an IEA member since 1985. Prior to that, he taught fourth-grade phonics and middle school reading in Champaign, and as a math and science teacher in Kankakee and Chicago.

He married the love of his life, Wanda, in 2018. He was the father of three children and two stepchildren.

Always leading with empathy, Al will be remembered for his kindness, his passion for public education and unions, his ability to put what’s best for students first, his dedication to the members of IEA and his devotion to his wife, Wanda.

Al always referred to Reg Weaver, IEA president from 1981 to 1987 and former NEA president, as his mentor. Reg said he will miss Llorens and all he brought to his lifelong work.

“Al Llorens was a true friend and a man of the people. He believed strongly in public education and fought diligently for union members, their students, families and the community. Al believed in the power of sports and was an excellent coach. He will be deeply missed.”

More tributes to IEA President Al Llorens from his friends and colleagues can be found in our press release: ieanea.link/IEAPresidentAlLlorens