October is National Principals Month, a month-long recognition of school leaders to honor their endless commitment to the success and well-being of the students under their care.
We asked the community’s principals — those serving in Districts 86 and 181 — what they most enjoy about their jobs. Here are their responses:
• “My favorite thing about being a principal is greeting the children daily when they arrive. I also love working with the dedicated Elm teachers. Collaborating with them to provide powerful instruction for our students is my passion. I am so lucky to be involved in work that gives me many reasons to smile each day!” — Sara Olson, Elm School
• “I love being outside to greet our students every morning — you can feel the energy and excitement and see the smiles on their faces as they head into the building. I feel so lucky to be a part of such a special place and work with such an amazing staff.” — Kimberley Rutan, Madison School
• “I like creating relationships with students, staff and families that are authentic and geared towards student success.” — Justin Horne, Monroe School
• “Being a principal is an incredible privilege. I love being able to greet students each morning and work with the staff members each day to make it a great experience for all.” — Martha Henrikson, Oak School
• “I love being a principal because I am lucky enough to greet students every morning and welcome them to a new school day. I also enjoy visiting classrooms during the day as I am so impressed with the professionalism and superb teaching that goes on everyday at Prospect!” — Kristin Cummings, Prospect School
• “I love having the opportunity to work with such amazing students, staff and families at The Lane! This school and community has truly welcomed me in as a member of The Lane Family, and for this, I am grateful.” — Brandon Todd, The Lane School
• “I love interacting with our Walker students, staff, and families in a way that connects us all to common goals and a wonderful sense of community. The best part of my day is visiting classes and engaging in learning while having fun with our students and teachers.” — Eric Chisausky, Walker School
• “It provides me the daily opportunity to help others — the learners, the parents and the amazing staff. The process of guiding students and parents through the challenging middle school years allows me to learn something new every day.” — Levi Brown, Clarendon Hills Middle School
• “I consider myself to be very lucky to be the principal of HMS. I am surrounded by a dedicated staff that is committed to helping students excel. I am grateful to be working in a community that places education as a cornerstone. It has been an amazing experience to work with such incredible children, helping them foster their desire to be lifelong learners, creating awesome memories. Go Spartans!” — Ruben Peña, Hinsdale Middle School principal
• “I enjoy leading a team of dedicated professionals who make it their mission to create a positive school culture that focuses both on academics and student well-being. My favorite part of my job is empowering student voice to ensure that students are part of the decision-making process.” — Arwen Pokorny Lyp, Hinsdale South High School principal
• “As a principal, I get to create a culture and climate in a building that transcends to the classroom, athletic fields and through our activities. Every day I come to work energized to serve the 325 staff members and 2,732 students at Hinsdale Central. What a career I have!” — Bill Walsh, Hinsdale Central High School principal
