Community Consolidated School District 15
2019-2020
Retiree Recognition June 10, 2020
A Virtual Celebration
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ducation is not the filling of a pail, but the lighting of a fire. —William Butler Yeats
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teacher takes a hand, opens a mind, and touches a heart. —Author Unknown
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ge is only a number, a cipher for the records. A man can’t retire his experience. He must use it. —Bernard Baruch
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ow lucky I am to have something that makes saying goodbye so hard. —A. A. Milne
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The following is a list of Community Consolidated School District 15’s 2019-2020 class of retirees, many of whom have chosen to share stories of their careers for this momentous occasion.
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incere congratulations to each of you on your retirement. Your years of service and dedication to District 15 have certainly made a positive impact. Whether you have worked directly with students or provided the vital support that enables our schools and teachers to do their jobs effectively, your many contributions to our mission to “produce world-class learners by building a connected learning community” are deeply appreciated. I t ’s astonishing to consider that the 94 of you together have tallied a combined total of 2,2 78.25 years of service. And even more amazing, 71 of you have been with the District for 20 or more years—24 of you more than 30 years! While you’ll be moving on to other interesting adventures, please know that you will be missed. We hope you leave with a sense of pride, knowing that your efforts made an important difference to the District. Best wishes for health, happiness, and pleasant memories of your years at District 15! Sincerely, Lisa Beth Szczupaj
President, Board of Education
Laurie Heinz, Ed.D.
Superintendent of Schools
Community Consolidated School District 15
Board of Education Recognizes
2019-2020 Retirees
Mike plans to play a lot of golf, bike ride, and continue with his travels. He may brush up on his French which he hasn’t used since high school and college! Mr. Adamczyk hopes to get down to Florida some time during the winter months to escape the cold. He has always wanted to enjoy watching the Detroit Tigers in spring training, which is high on his bucket list.
Marilyn Ablin
Reading Consultant Specialist Virginia Lake Elementary School 23 Years Marilyn joined District 15 in 1997 and served as a Reading Consultant Specialist at Virginia Lake Elementary School. In addition, Mrs. Ablin taught grades 3-6 at Jane Addams from 1997-2002. While teaching 3rd grade, she attended the Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs participating in their Space Discovery program for teachers. Marilyn also served as a Reading Consultant Specialist at Lake Louise (2002-2005), and Assistant Principal Virginia Lake/Thomas Jefferson (20052007). Mrs. Ablin is a member of the Illinois Reading Council (having attended many Illinois Reading Conferences and was able to meet many authors of children’s books) as well as the International Literacy Association. Marilyn and her husband, Dave, have two adult children, Ben and Missy, both living out of state. Upon retirement, she plans to travel with her husband to visit their children, along with a large extended family and friends, and also fill her days with reading, biking, hiking, golfing and volunteering.
Denise Almdale Special Education Teacher Winston Campus Junior High School 22 Years
Denise joined the District in 1998 and served as a Special Education Teacher at Winston Campus Junior High School. Mrs. Almdale began her career as a Special Education teacher in the AIME (Alternate Instruction for Meaningful Education) program. In 2007, she transitioned to working in junior high school. Prior to joining District 15, Denise served as a Special Education Teacher in Schaumburg School District 54 from 1981-1984. Mrs. Almdale was a nominee for the Golden Apple Award and also earned three District 15 Foundation grant awards. Denise and her husband, Jeff, have been married 40 years and have four children, Dana, Brooke, Brian (Veronica), and Paige. Upon retirement, Mrs. Almdale looks forward to traveling, spending time with her granddaughter and her family, as well as entertaining, going to the Buehler YMCA, and going on Gal Trips with her daughters, sisters, and friends. She also wants to keep connected with education and would enjoy working with students who continue to struggle with reading.
Michael Adamczyk Chief School Business Official Joseph M. Kiszka Educational Service Center 10 Years
Mike joined District 15 in 2010 and served as the Chief School Business Official for the District. Prior to joining the District, Mr. Adamczyk served as the Assistant Superintendent of Business, East Detroit Public Schools and Troy School District, Michigan. Mike is a member of the Association of School Business Officials International and the Illinois Association of School Business Officials. In 2012, he was awarded Daily Business Herald CFO of The Year. Mr. Adamczyk and his wife, Carol, have a son, Gregory, and a daughter Jaclyn. Upon retirement, 1
Carol Annarella
James Artrip
Carol joined the District in 1999 and spent her entire career serving as a 1st Grade Teacher at Hunting Ridge Elementary School. Prior to joining District 15, Mrs. Annarella served for eight years as a 1st Grade Teacher and one year as a substitute teacher for District 15 in McHenry. Carol and her husband have a daughter and three grandchildren. Upon retirement, she plans to continue to enjoy life and her new adventures at a slower pace.
Jim joined District 15 in 1989 and served as a 5th Grade Teacher at Stuart R. Paddock Elementary School.
First Grade Teacher Hunting Ridge Elementary School 20 Years
Fifth Grade Teacher Stuart R. Paddock Elementary School 31 Years
Joanne Atkinson-K loser School Social Worker Stuart R. Paddock Elementary School 19 Years
Deborah Apger
Joanne joined District 15 in 2001 and served as a Social Worker at Stuart R. Paddock Elementary School. Prior to joining the District, Mrs. Atkinson-Kloser worked as a social worker. She is a member of the National Association of Social Workers. Joanne received the Sonya Petersen Memorial Award (2004) and the Those Who Excel Award of Excellence (2015). Upon retirement, she hopes to travel, continue to care for elderly relatives, and work part time.
First Grade Teacher Jane Addams Elementary School 31 Years Debbie joined District 15 in 1989 and served as a 1st Grade Teacher at Jane Addams Elementary School. Mrs. Apger began her career in District 15 serving as a Program Assistant at Lincoln, Virginia Lake and Jane Addams Elementary Schools. After earning her teaching degree in 1998, she was hired to teach first grade at Jane Addams where she has been both a 1st and 2nd Grade Teacher. Debbie is the proud mother of a son and a daughter who spent their entire elementary years at Jane Addams. Upon retirement, Mrs. Apger plans to read, enjoy time with her family and friends and spend as much time as possible with her granddaughter, Sloan.
Kathleen Barlow
Speech and Language Pathologist John G. Conyers Learning Academy 18 Years Kathy joined District 15 in 2002 and served as Speech and Language Pathologist at John G. Conyers Learning Academy. Mrs. Barlow began her career in District 15 at Stuart R. Paddock Elementary School. Prior to joining District 15, Kathy served as a Speech/Language Pathologist in Schaumburg School District 54, as well 2
as in Sidney, Ohio, and Michigan. Before working in education, she was a Speech/Language Pathologist in the medical arena. Mrs. Barlow is a member of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association. She and her husband, Bill, are empty nesters and the proud Gram-Gram and Papa to our granddaughter, Charlotte. She lives in Los Angeles with her mommy and daddy, Caitlin Barlow and Frank Abraham. Their son, Peter, is a Drill Sergeant in the Army, stationed in Arizona. Upon retirement, the Barlows are moving to Tucson, Arizona, to be closer to our children and grandbaby.
Nancy Biancalana
Eighth Grade American History Teacher Walter R. Sundling Junior High School 31 Years Nancy joined District 15 in 1989 and served as an Eighth Grade American History Teacher at Walter R. Sundling Junior High School. She has held many roles in her career at Sundling including half-time Clerical Assistant, roles at both 7th and 8th Grade in English and History. Mrs. Biancalana also served as an advisor for eleven years! She has been teaching 8th Grade American History for the last eleven years. All of her thirty years have been with Sundling! Nancy is a member of the Classroom Teachers’ Council, the National Education Association, and the Palatine Kiwanis.
June Becker
Senior Executive Assistant/Recording Secretary to the Board of Education Joseph M. Kiszka Educational Service Center 13 Years
The award that stands out the most to Mrs. Biancalana was when Sundling was given the Blue Ribbon Award from the U.S. Department of Education in 1996. She was very proud to be a part of this accomplishment; Sundling was the first District 15 school to receive this award in 1996. Nancy’s son, Brian, will be 22 years old next month and has autism. He is the light of her life! Upon retirement, Mrs. Biancalana plans on devoting her time to her special needs son, Brian.
June joined District 15 in 2007 and served as the Recording Secretary to the Board of Education as well as a Senior Executive Assistant in the Communications Department and Superintendent’s Office. Mrs. Becker was nominated for an Illinois School Board of Education Those Who Excel Award. Prior to joining the District, June served as a Building Secretary, among other positions, in District 21 for 19 years. She and her husband, Craig, have four children, Eden (Adam), Jacqueline (Eric), Shawna (Kurt), and Robert (Jericha) and six grandchildren, Carter, Kenzie, Everly, Scarlett, Declan, and Alexandria. It has been June’s honor and pleasure to be a part of District 15. The camaraderie is second to none and the friendships she has made will last a lifetime. Upon retirement, Mrs. Becker will be all about family, from the oldest to the youngest, she wants to enjoy each and every one every minute that she can!
Susan Boos
Special Education Program Assistant Carl Sandburg Junior High School 20 Years Susan joined District 15 in 1999 and served as a Special Education Program Assistant working with Karen Aprile, Special Education Teacher, in the MILE (Modified Instructional Learning Environment) Program.
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Kathleen Carlson
Rebecca Clark
Program Assistant Willow Bend Elementary School 23 Years
Comprehensive Music Teacher and Director, Chorus Marion Jordan Elementary School 23 Years
Kathy joined District 15 in 1997 and served as a Program Assistant at Willow Bend Elementary School.
Becky joined District 15 in 1997 and served as a Comprehensive Music Teacher at Marion Jordan Elementary School as well as the Director of the Marion Jordan Chorus. In addition she served as an Itinerant Teacher to students at Hunting Ridge, Jane Addams, Kimball Hill, Gray M. Sanborn and Stuart R. Paddock Elementary Schools. Prior to joining District 15, Ms. Clark served as a Elementary/Junior High School Comprehensive Music Teacher in Woodstock, Illinois District 200. She served as Choral Director with Barrington Children’s Choir for 22 years and has been a Weekend Vocal Team member at Willow Creek Community Church for 11 years. Upon retirement, Ms. Clark plans to help her father, who lives in Michigan, maintain his lakefront property and maybe even finally learn to drive his boat! Becky plans on sharing her own retirement home on the shores of Lake Barrington with her brother, sister-in-law, niece and nephew who live in Chicago.
Kevin Carter
Head Custodian Walter R. Sundling Junior High School 34 Years Kevin joined District 15 in 1986 and served as a Head Custodian at Walter R. Sundling Junior High School.
Kimberly Kolze Cichon 8th Grade ELA Teacher Plum Grove Junior High School 33 and ¾ Years
Terry Croak
Kimberly joined District 15 in 1986 and served as an 8th Grade English/Language Arts Teacher at Plum Grove Junior High School. She served as a Substitute Teacher for one year before joining the staff of Plum Grove. Mrs. Cichon started in District 15 in 1969 as a kindergartner at Pleasant Hill Elementary School and graduated from Plum Grove Junior High School as an 8th grader in 1978! It has been an honor and a pleasure for Kimberly to teach in District 15 at Plum Grove for her entire career among an amazing group of people. She has been married to her husband, Randy, since 1996.
Second Grade Teacher Willow Bend Elementary School 33 Years Terry joined District 15 in 1987 and served as a Second Grade Teacher at Willow Bend Elementary School. Mrs. Croak also taught at Lake Louise (1987-1995) and Frank C. Whiteley (1995-2010) Elementary Schools. Prior to joining the District, Terry served as a teacher at Robert Frost Elementary School. She earned her Masters Degree in Curriculum and was the recipient of the BP Fabric of America Classroom Award as well as two Golden Apple Award nominations. Mrs. Croak 4
and her husband, Neil, have been married for the past 29 years and have two daughters, Courtney (27) and Laura (25). Both of their girls are high school teachers. Upon retirement, Terry plans to put her health and happiness as her first priority. That means lots of outdoor time in the sunshine! In addition, she is looking forward to catching up with family living in different parts of the country and plans to work towards completion on the many projects that she has started. Mrs. Croak and her husband will soon join forces in sales with the correctional furniture industry.
Patricia DeGiulio Senior Executive Assistant, Student Services Joseph M. Kiszka Educational Service Center 21 and ½ Years
Patti joined District 15 in 1998 and served as Senior Executive Assistant in the Student Services Department. Mrs. DeGiulio also worked for the Transportation Department and Department of Instruction. Prior to District 15, Patti worked for what was then called the Chicago Board of Education in the 1970s for 4 years, and then for Lee Auto Parts for 19 years. Mrs. DeGiulio and her husband, Jim, have been married for 40 years and have two children: Vicki, who is a 2nd grade teacher at Willow Bend. She is married to Nic and has 3 children, Stella, JD, and Gianna. Her son, Joe, is a high school Special Education teacher. He is married to Lindsay and has 2 boys—Nico and Louie. Upon retirement, Patti plans on enjoying her wonderful grandchildren, reading and traveling.
Julie Crull
Learning Resource Center Teacher Frank C. Whiteley and Jane Addams Elementary Schools 29 Years Julie joined District 15 in 1991 and served as the Learning Resource Center Teacher at Frank C. Whiteley and Jane Addams Elementary Schools. Mrs. Crull taught 1st and 2nd grade for about nine years each, looping with several classes, moving to the resource center in 2010. Prior to District 15, Julie taught second grade in Pecatonica for one year and six years in Winnebago in grades two and three.
Angela Drazkowski Program Assistant Stuart R. Paddock Elementary School 24 Years
Suzann Cuellar
Angie joined District 15 in 1996 and served as a Program Assistant at Stuart R. Paddock Elementary School. Mrs. Drazkowski worked briefly at Virginia Lake, but spent the remainder of her career at Stuart R. Paddock. She has had many different opportunities to work with our students in many different capacities: Reading Intervention (KIP), Oneon-One, Recess Duty inside and outside! In addition, Angie has worked as the Site Director for the CARE Program, at Buehler YMCA (Building Supervisor, Camp Counselor, Birthday Party Leader, and Family Adventure Supervisor). Mrs. Drazkowski also served as the Educational Support Personnel Association (ESPA) President from 1998-2020. Angie and her husband,
Fourth Grade Teacher Central Road Elementary School 19 Years Suzy joined District 15 in 2001 and served as a 4th Grade Teacher at Central Road Elementary School.
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Richard, have been married 37 years and have two sons, Michael (30) and Matthew (28), as well as a granddaughter, Makayla (10). Upon retirement, the Drazkowskis will be moving to Florence, Arizona, to soak up the SUN!
retirement, Joan plans on traveling with her husband, relaxing and enjoying time with family and friends.
School Psychologist Frank C. Whiteley Elementary School 25 Years
John G. Conyers Learning Academy 15 Years
Cathleen M. Fisher, CCC-SL P /L Patricia Eltherington, Ed.S. M.S., Speech-Language Pathologist Cathi joined District 15 in 1989 and served as a Speech-Language Pathologist for Multiple Needs and ACES (Anger Management, Character Education, Empathy Training, and Social Skills) programs at John G. Conyers Learning Academy. Mrs. Fisher worked at the District from 1989-1992 (1989-90 at GMS; 1990-92 development and implementation of the Language Learning Program), 1996-1997 and then continuously the last 12 years. Prior to joining the District, Cathi served as a Speech-Language Pathologist/Teacher Language Learning Program at CUSD 300 beginning in 1980. She is a member of the American Speech-LanguageHearing Association. Mrs. Fisher and her husband, Tom, have two children: Brent (son) - English teacher at Palatine High School. Danielle Greenberg, his fiancee, is a middle school English teacher; Mallory (daughter) is completing a degree in Special Education and Elementary Education at Eureka College. Jim Kosner, her fiancé, is the owner of JIMAX located in Peoria. Upon retirement, Cathi is looking forward to 2 weddings, walking dogs, traveling with her husband, and grandchildren!
Patty joined District 15 in 1995 and served as a School Psychologist at Frank C. Whiteley Elementary School. During her tenure in the District, she served many of our schools as a School Psychologist. Prior to joining the District, Mrs. Eltherington served as a School Psychologist in McHenry and a junior high school Math teacher in Zion. She was a member of the Illinois School Psychologists Association and the National Association of School Psychologists. Patty is married to her husband, Brian. She has a daughter, Sylvia, 2 stepchildren, Leslie and Brian, and 6 grandchildren. Upon retirement, Mrs. Eltherington plans to have fun outdoors, including visits to the Upper Peninsula, skiing, biking, hiking, bird watching. She also plans to volunteer at Misericordia.
Joan Felz
School Social Worker Frank C. Whiteley, Lake Louise, and Winston Campus Elementary Schools 33 Years
Kathy Franzen
Joan joined the District in 1987 and served as a School Social Worker at Frank C. Whiteley, Lake Louise, and Winston Campus Elementary Schools. Mrs. Felz has been married to her husband, Patrick, for 37 years. They have 2 wonderful children, Megan and Matthew. Upon
Special Education Teacher Lincoln Elementary School 24 Years
Kathy joined District 15 in 1999 and served as a Special Education Teacher at Lincoln Elementary 6
School for 19 years. Mrs. Franzen started her career in the District as a Program Assistant in Willow Bend Behavior Self Contained Classroom (1996-1998), then moved to her role as a Special Education Teacher at Kimball Hill and Lake Louise Elementary Schools (1999-2001). Prior to joining the District, Kathy served as a Special Education Teacher at Arlyn Day School and Little City Foundation. She received the Illinois State Board of Education Those Who Excel Award of Recognition in 2011 as a part of the Lincoln School Student Service Team. Mrs. Franzen and her husband, Tim, have four children: Kelly (spouse, Eric), Michael, Kate and Joseph, and 2 grand doggies, Irma and Frankie. Upon retirement, Kathy plans to spend more time with family and friends, do some traveling, hiking, training with comfort dogs, and volunteer.
Health Clerk, helping nurses at four different schools entering student health data into the system. After that, Sue was the Learning Resource Center Clerical for 6 years at Lincoln School. Mrs. Gebhardt was a member of the Educational Support Personnel Association, the Illinois Education Association, and the National Education Association. Sue received the Superintendent’s Communication Council Employee Recognition Award for Exceptional Service in 2002. Mrs. Gebhardt has been married to her husband, Jim, for 42 years and they have three sons and four grandsons. Upon retirement, Sue’s future plans include volunteering at her grandsons’ schools, continuing to sing in her church choir and traveling with her husband. The hope is to visit as many National Parks as possible.
Ronald Furgason
Susan Gehring
STEM and CAD Teacher Plum Grove Junior High School 29 Years
Assistant Superintendent for Student Services Joseph M. Kiszka Educational Service Center 8 Years
Ron joined the District in 1991 and served as a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) and CAD (Computer Aided Design) Teacher at Plum Grove Junior High School. In addition, Mr. Furgason served as both Boys’ and Girls’ Basketball Coach as well as Boys Wrestling and Track Coach.
Sue joined District 15 in 2012 and served as the Assistant Superintendent for Student Services.
Pamela Gibson
Secretary Children’s Activity, Recreation, and Enrichment (CARE) Program 25 Years
Susan Gebhardt Program Assistant Lincoln Elementary School 23 and ½ Years
Pamela joined District 15 in 1995 and served as the Secretary for the Children’s Activity, Recreation, and Enrichment (CARE) Program Program.
Sue joined District 15 in 1996 and served as a Program Assistant at Lincoln Elementary School over the last 15 years, working primarily in 2nd Grade but also with reading intervention students. She started as a Special Education Program Assistant in the Early Childhood Program and then spent 2 years as a 7
George joined the District in 1994 and served as a Transportation Utility Driver in the Transportation Department.
2011 at Thomas Jefferson Elementary School. Val earned an Illinois School Board of Education Those Who Excel Award for her work here. Mrs. Gruenwald lives with her husband, Steve, and mother, Dorothy. Their family also includes sons, daughters-in-law, and grandchildren: Jeremy, Janet, Rose and Molly; Seth, Sarah, Grayson and Finley; Colin, Laura, George and Lucy. Upon retirement, Val plans to spend time with family and traveling during other than school vacations; volunteer work, starting with Excel Beyond 211 and NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness).
Harold Gottlieb
Linn E. Grum
Harold joined District 15 in 2008 and served as a Bus Driver in the Transportation Department.
Linn joined District 15 in 2006 and served as a General Education Program Assistant at Marion Jordan Elementary School. In addition, she worked part-time at Thomas Jefferson, Stuart R. Paddock, and then full-time at Gray M. Sanborn and Marion Jordan Elementary Schools. Prior to her work in the District, Mrs. Grum was an Administrative Assistant at A.C. Nielsen Company. Linn and her husband, Patrick, have been married since 1985 and have two children, Brittany and Justin, as well as a dog, Jackson! She is a member of the American Daughters of Sweden. Upon retirement, Mrs. Grum is not really sure how she will spend her time!
George Goeppinger Transportation Utility Driver Transportation Department 26 Years
Program Assistant Marion Jordan Elementary School 14 Years
Bus Driver Transportation Department 12 Years
Valerie Gruenwald School Psychologist John G. Conyers Learning Academy and Marion Jordan Elementary School 21 Years
Val joined the District in 1999 and served as a School Psychologist at John G. Conyers Learning Academy and Marion Jordan Elementary School. From 1999-2004, Mrs. Gruenwald served as the Low Incidence School Psychologist for programs located across the District: Winston Campus, Jane Addams, Virginia Lake, Gray M. Sanborn, Central Road, Plum Grove Junior High Schools. From 2004-2020, she worked with the ACES (Anger Management, Character Education, Empathy Training, and Social Skills) and Multiple Needs programs, and some years Early Childhood, at Conyers Learning Academy; SIP (Structured for Independence Program) and more recently SEAL (Social Emotional Academic Learning) at Marion Jordan. In addition, she served in 2010-
Kim Haas
Special Education Teacher Winston Campus Elementary School 21 Years Kim joined District 15 in 2004 and served as Special Education Teacher at Winston Campus Elementary School. In addition to her full-time teaching career, Mrs. Haas served as a TPI 8
(Transitional Program of Education) Tutor at Winston Campus Junior High School for 5 years. Prior to joining the District, she served as a Special Education Teacher from 2002-2004 at the NSSEO (Northern Suburban Special Education Association). Kim has a daughter, Taryn, 31, and a son, Cole 28, as well as 3 dogs and a cat! Upon retirement, Mrs. Haas would like to work part time, volunteer, travel, bike, kayak, hike and of course walk dogs!
Lorrie Hoenig
Special Education Teacher Virginia Lake Elementary School 33 Years Lorrie joined District 15 in 1987 and served as a Special Education Teacher at Virginia Lake Elementary School.
Cheryl Harsh
Reading Specialist Hunting Ridge Elementary School 15 Years
Nancy Hyrczyk
Cheryl joined District 15 in 2005 and served as a Reading Specialist at Hunting Ridge Elementary School. She started the One Book One School program at Hunting Ridge with Karen Surdynski the LRC teacher. Prior to joining the District, Mrs. Harsh served as a First Grade Teacher in Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio. She is a member of the Illinois Reading Council and the International Reading Association. Cheryl won two grants including one for magazines for Reading Intervention students and one for iPads for Reading Intervention students. Mrs. Harsh has been married for 38 years and has three children, Sarah, 32, Kathleen, 30, and Eric, 27. Upon retirement, Cheryl plans on traveling, hiking in Colorado, baking, and gardening.
Nancy joined District 15 in 1996 and served as a Sixth Grade Teacher at Pleasant Hill Elementary School. She began her career here as a Program Assistant at Hunting Ridge Elementary School and then taught sixth grade there for one year before spending the rest of her teaching career at Pleasant Hill. While in District 15, Mrs. Hyrczyk earned her National Board Teacher Certification. Prior to joining the District, she taught fifth grade for ten years in Chicago. Nancy has one son, Michael, who is her best friend. Upon retirement, she plans on traveling and spending more quality time with family and friends.
Sixth Grade Teacher Pleasant Hill Elementary School 24 Years
James Hilbert
Gregory Isaacs
James joined District 15 in 1991 and served as a Head Custodian at Virginia Lake Elementary School.
Greg joined District 15 in 1998 and served as a Third Grade Teacher at Pleasant Hill Elementary School.
Head Custodian Virginia Lake Elementary School 29 Years
Third Grade Teacher Pleasant Hill Elementary School 25 Years
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Boston, India) so Ana intends to travel and spend more time with family.
Jonelle Johnson
ESL(English Second Language)/Bilingual Teacher Winston Campus Junior High School 22 Years
Sandy King
Second Grade Teacher Marion Jordan Elementary School 34 Years
Jonelle joined the District in 1998 and served as an ESL/Bilingual Teacher at Winston Campus Junior High School. In addition, Mrs. Johnson served as a Teacher at a number of different District 15 schools: Frank C. Whiteley School (1998), Walter R. Sundling Junior High (2000), Winston Campus Junior High (2006), Thomas Jefferson School 2013), and returning to Winston Campus Junior High in 2017. Jonelle has also served as an Adjunct Professor at National Louis University. While in District 15, Mrs. Johnson earned her National Board Teacher Certification. Prior to joining the District, she served as a Teacher at St. Theresa School. Jonelle has four grandchildren, three children, one husband, and much happiness! Upon her retirement, her plans are many and varied.
Sandy joined District 15 in 1986 and served as a Second Grade Teacher at Marion Jordan Elementary School. Mrs. King proudly taught at Marion Jordan for 34 years: 28 years teaching third grade, followed by 6 years teaching second grade. She has been blessed to have been married to her amazing husband for 30 years; together, they have two wonderful adult kids. Upon retirement, Sandy plans to move to the country after living in the city for more than 30 years. In addition, she plans to travel and spend time with family.
Kathleen Kingston Resource Teacher Frank C. Whiteley Elementary School 29 Years
Ana Kamath
Seventh Grade Science Teacher Plum Grove Junior High School 26 Years
Kathy joined District 15 in 1991 and served as a Resource Teacher at Frank C. Whiteley Elementary School. During her many years as an Inclusion Facilitator, she was fortunate to work in all twenty of our schools. In addition, Mrs. Kingston was a full-time Resource Teacher at Kimball Hill and Frank C. Whiteley. It’s been a highlight of her career to work with so many dedicated, supportive staff members throughout our district. Prior to joining the District, Kathy served as a teacher of students with physical disabilities for the North Suburban Special Education District in Northbrook; she worked at Wescott School from 1984-1991. Upon retirement, Mrs. Kingston plans to relax in tropical places, enjoy quality time with loved ones and begin a private tutoring business.
Ana joined District 15 in 1994 and served as a Seventh Grade Science Teacher at Plum Grove Junior High School. She has always taught 7th grade science. Over the years, Mrs. Kamath enjoyed sponsoring the Environmental Club, Math Club and presently Science Fair and Scholastic Bowl. Ana and her late husband, Jolyon, and had 4 children: three married daughters, Nicola (Anand), Kristen (Brad), Carrie (Joe) a son Andrew, and 6 grandchildren (Kalyan, Roshan, Ananya, Barrett, Cashel, Isaac). She feels blessed. Upon retirement, Mrs. Kamath hopes to volunteer, stay involved in education, and check off on the long list of projects that are awaiting her retirement! The Kamath family is very spread out (San Francisco, Seattle, Nashville, 10
Ellen K limala
Pam Laughland
Nurse Jane Addams Elementary School 22 Years
ESL (English Second Language) Resource Teacher Frank C. Whiteley Elementary School 25 Years
Ellen joined District 15 in 1998 and served as a Nurse at Jane Addams Elementary School.
Pam joined District 15 in 1995 and served as an ESL (English Second Language) Resource Teacher at Frank C. Whiteley Elementary School. Mrs. Laughland began her career as a Program Assistant from 1993-1999 and served at Thomas Jefferson, Kimball Hill, and Willow Bend Elementary Schools. Once she earned her teaching degree, she served at many schools in the District, including Kimball Hill (1999-2002, 2006-17) and Virginia Lake Elementary Schools (2002-2006) before moving to Frank C. Whiteley in 2017. Mrs. Laughland earned her National Board Certification in 2008 and renewed it in 2018.
Marc Konny
Technology Support Specialist Technology Services 23 Years Marc joined the District in 1996 and served as a Technology Support Specialist in the Technology Services Department. Upon retirement, Marc is enjoying life in sunny Arizona playing golf!
She is a member of the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards. Pam has been married to her husband, Len, for 42 years. They have two daughters, a granddaughter, and a grandson on the way. Upon retirement, Mrs. Laughland looks forward to traveling and spending time with her grandchildren.
Sandra Elizabeth Lahoz, M.Ed. Bilingual Kindergarten Teacher Lake Louise Elementary School 32 Years
T homas Lecture Maintenance Technician Environmental Services Department 35 Years
Sandra joined District 15 in 1988 and served as a Bilingual Kindergarten Teacher at Lake Louise Elementary School. In addition, Mrs. Lahoz spent 2 years at Virginia Lake (5th and 6th bilingual), 5 years at Walter R. Sundling Junior High (7th grade bilingual), 2 years in second grade bilingual and 3 years kindergarten bilingual at Kimball Hill, 2 years kindergarten bilingual at Frank C. Whiteley, 16 years ESL and 4 years kindergarten bilingual at Lake Louise.
Tom joined District 15 in 1985 and served as a Maintenance Technician in the Environmental Services Department.
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her first year with all 1-4 classes at what used to be known as the Clearbrook Center. The new/current Kimball Hill opened in 1991. Mrs. Madden spent all of her years in room 104 teaching first grade and loving every second of it! Prior to joining the District, Joanne taught second grade for 12 years at St. Jude the Apostle School in South Holland, Illinois. Mrs. Madden and her husband, Kieran, were married in 1993 and have a daughter Erin who is now a teacher too. She is also lucky to have a bonus son, Michael. Upon retirement, the Maddens plan to travel to Ireland next year. They also plan to spend more time at their lake house and travel across the United States. Joanne hopes to spend time with friends and family when she is not gardening, golfing, and reading.
John Lovitz
Head Custodian Lincoln Elementary School 27 Years John joined District 15 in 1993 and served as a Head Custodian at Lincoln Elementary School.
Felipe Lucero
Custodian Virginia Lake Elementary School 19 Years
Chris Mann
Felipe joined District 15 in 2001 and served as a Custodian at Virginia Lake Elementary School.
Student Services Secretary Joseph M. Kiszka Educational Service Center 19 Years
Diane Mackey
Chris joined District 15 in 2001 and served as a Secretary in the Student Services Department.
Program Assistant Thomas Jefferson Elementary School 33 Years
Steve Marquis
Diane joined District 15 in 1987 and served as a Program Assistant at Thomas Jefferson Elementary School.
Learning Resource Center Teacher Virginia Lake and Winston Campus Elementary Schools 35 Years Steve joined District 15 in 1985 and served as the Learning Resource Center Teacher (LRC) at Virginia Lake and Winston Campus Elementary Schools. He is a member of the National Board of Professional Teaching Standards in Library Media. Mr. Marquis and his wife, Robin, have two adult sons, Steven and Brian. Upon retirement, Steve plans on playing a lot of golf and enjoying extra time with his family. Mr. Marquis and his wife will be welcoming their first grandchild in November. Their son, Brian, will be getting married next Spring.
Joanne Madden First Grade Teacher Kimball Hill Elementary School 30 Years
Joanne joined District 15 in 1990 and served as a 1st Grade Teacher at Kimball Hill Elementary School. She began one of the years Kimball Hill was under construction and spent 12
Lisa McCarty-Meincke
Sharon Moore
Special Education Facilitator Stuart R. Paddock Elementary School 34 Years
Reading Consultant Specialist Lincoln Elementary School 21 Years
Sharon joined District 15 in 1999 and served as a Reading Consultant Specialist at Lincoln Elementary School. Prior roles include August 1999: Program Assistant/ Reading Intervention Program Assistant August 2007 Reading Consultant Specialist. Mrs. Moore earned the Illinois State Board of Education’s Those Who Excel Award of Recognition 2011 as a part of the Lincoln School Student Service Team. Prior to joining the District, Mrs. Moore served at Harvard CUSD 50 for 3 years (Special Ed teacher (2) and First Grade teacher (1) and Woodstock CUSD 200 for 4.5 years (First Grade Teacher). Sharon is married to her husband, Tim, and has three daughters, Tracy, Jodie and Sandra. All three girls attended D15 schools. Upon retirement, Mrs. Moore is looking forward to new adventures with her family and friends.
Lisa joined the District in 1984 and served as a Special Education Facilitator at Stuart R. Paddock Elementary School. She started teaching in the Early Childhood Program at Jane Addams School, but was lucky enough to have done many things during her career, including teaching kindergarten at Stuart R. Paddock. In addition, Mrs. McCarty-Meincke was an inclusion facilitator working to successfully include students with special needs in their home schools. She cotaught 7th and 8th grade English/Language Arts at Walter R. Sundling. Lisa has presented several in-service trainings on Autism Spectrum Disorder, Down’s Syndrome and inclusion. She has trained program assistants and worked with teachers and teams in every building in the District at some point throughout her career. Mrs. McCarty-Meincke is a part-time college instructor at Oakton Community College and William Rainey Harper College.
Francine Mueller
She is a member of Autism Speaks and UPS for DownS. Lisa has a 35 year old daughter, Meghan, who lives in the city with her family and a 26 year old son, Tim, who lives and works in Palatine. Both of her children attended District 15 schools and Palatine High School. Upon retirement, Lisa’s plans are still being finalized, but they definitely include continuing to work with families that have children with special needs. She also wants to travel and spend as much time as she can with her delightful granddaughters.
Benefits Specialist Joseph M. Kiszka Educational Service Center 30 Years
Francine joined District 15 in 1990 and served as the Benefits Specialist in the Business and Auxiliary Services Department. Mrs. Mueller was awarded the Illinois School Board of Education’s Those Who Excel Award of Excellence in 2013-14. Prior to joining the District, Francine worked in the insurance industry. She is a member of the BCBS HMO Advisory Committee. Mrs. Mueller has been married to her husband, George, for 37 years. She has three stepchildren and five grandchildren. Upon retirement, Francine plans on gardening, reading, and getting involved in agility training with her two-year-old Border Collie. 13
Praneeta Narechania
Rosanna P. Oblitas
Praneeta joined District 15 in 1998 and served as an English as a Second Language (ESL) Teacher at Hunting Ridge Elementary School. She began her career in the District as a Bilingual Program Assistant at Walter R. Sundling Jr. High School (1998-2006). Additional positions included: 7th and 8th grade science teacher at Winston Campus Junior High School (2006-2018), ESL Resource Teacher for 4th, 5th and 6th grades. Prior to joining the District, Mrs. Narechania served as a Program Assistant at Vernon Center Middle School in Vernon, Connecticut. Praneeta has been happily married to Nipun for 38 years. She has 2 sons, Tejas (Khushali) and Saumya, a granddaughter, Sumati, and another one on the way in August. Upon retirement, Mrs. Narechania plans on travelling and spending time with the grandkids.
Patty joined District 15 in 1990 and served as a Teacher at Stuart R. Paddock Elementary School.
English as a Second Language Teacher Hunting Ridge Elementary School 22 Years
Teacher Stuart R. Paddock Elementary School 30 Years
Micky Olszewski
Program Assistant Hunting Ridge Elementary School 23 Years Micky joined District 15 in 1997 and served as a Program Assistant at Hunting Ridge Elementary School. She has worked to support students with their reading. Mrs. Olszewski started the Hawk Helping Hands to support the routines and procedures of the lunchroom.
Robin Nelson
Debra Oltman
Third-Fourth Grade Gifted Teacher Marion Jordan Elementary School 23 Years
3rd-4th Grade Gifted Teacher Hunting Ridge Elementary School 28 Years Debra joined District 15 in 1992 and served as a 3rd-4th Grade Gifted Teacher at Hunting Ridge Elementary School. She started her career as a 4th Grade Teacher at Frank C. Whiteley, and has taught at Hunting Ridge since 1993, holding various positions including 3rd Grade, 4th Grade, 4th/5th Grades as well as her current assignment. Prior to joining the District, Mrs. Oltman served as a 1st Grade Teacher in a parochial school for three years; also, 3rd Grade Teacher in Bensenville School District for 6 years. Debra is married and has two sons and daughters-inlaw as well as a grandbaby boy. Upon retirement, the Oltmans plan to travel and spend time with family.
Robin joined District 15 in 1997 and served as a Third-Fourth Grade Gifted Teacher at Marion Jordan Elementary School. Prior to joining the District, she served as a 1st and 5th Grade Teacher at District 89. Robin and her husband, Mark, have two daughters, Rachel and Rebecca, son-in-law Scott, and two granddaughters, Madison (2 years) and Avery (2 months). Upon retirement, the Nelsons plan to enjoy their house in Florida and spend time with family and friends.
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Rada Orlovic
Beverly Przybyla
Rada joined District 15 in 2004 and served as an English as a Second Language Teacher at Lake Louise Elementary School.
Beverly joined District 15 in 2005 and served as a Special Education Resource Teacher at Kimball Hill and Virginia Lake Elementary Schools. Prior to joining the District, Mrs. Przybyla served as a Special Education Teacher at both Crystal Lake District 47 and McHenry High School East. Beverly is married to her husband, Mark, and has a daughter, Sarah, who is 24 years old and lives in Chicago.
English as a Second Language Teacher Lake Louise Elementary School 16 Years
Special Education Resource Teacher Kimball Hill and Virginia Lake Elementary Schools 15 Years
Ruth Petitt
8th Grade English/Language Arts Teacher Plum Grove Junior High School 21 Years
Maureen Quesse
Ruth joined District 15 in 1999 and served as an 8th Grade English/Language Arts Teacher at Plum Grove Junior High School. She also served as a 7th Grade English/Language Arts Teacher from 1999-2014 before moving to 8th Grade. Mrs. Petitt was the proud moderator of Writers’ Club, PG Newspaper, Student Council, and School Spelling Bee. In addition, she served on the District Language Arts committee for several years. Ruth has been married to John for 34 years. They have 3 grown children, Hannah (Mike), Matt (Paulina), and Lizz, as well as a beautiful granddaughter named Olive. Upon retirement, Mrs. Petitt hopes to spend time with her family and do lots of reading and writing. Part-time work is also an option.
Special Education Teacher Thomas Jefferson Elementary School 19 Years
Maureen joined District 15 in 2001 and served as a Special Education Teacher at Thomas Jefferson Elementary School.
Lisa Quick
Speech Pathologist Stuart R. Paddock Elementary School 29 Years Lisa joined District 15 in 1991 and served as a Speech Pathologist at Stuart R. Paddock Elementary School.
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grandchildren, going to see them out of state, as well as quilting, gardening, and having fun!
Sandra Ramsland Reading Specialist Jane Addams Elementary School 17 Years
Rosella Roddy-Bartoli Program Assistant Lincoln Elementary School 20 Years
Sandy joined District 15 in 2003 and served as a Reading Specialist at Jane Addams Elementary School. Prior to joining the District, she served at Avon Center School in Grayslake for 7 years. Mrs. Ramsland is married to her husband, Alan, and has two children, Erik and Amy. Upon retirement, Sandy plans to spend time with her family, traveling, hiking and of course, reading!
Rosella joined District 15 in 2000 and served as a Program Assistant at Lincoln Elementary School. She began her career in the District as a General Education Program Assistant in kindergarten and provided KIP reading instruction in the first year the program was used. After a number of years in kindergarten, she began to provide Reading Intervention and educational support in grades 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5. This year, Mrs. Roddy-Bartoli served mainly with 2nd and 3rd Grades. Rosella served as a Building Representative in the D15 Educational Service Personnel Association (ESPA) union for 5 years and served as Co-Vice President and Membership Chair for the past two years. She also led Cub Scout Pack 96 for 5 years and Boy Scout Troop 168 for 8 years, both in Rolling Meadows. Rosella is an active member of the Community Church of Rolling Meadows, having served on Church Council. Mrs. Roddy-Bartoli and her husband, Mike, have been married for 38 years. They have one son, Bryan who is currently living outside Dallas, Texas, with his wife, Laura and their menagerie of pets. Upon retirement, Rosella and her husband would like to move to Texas to spend more time with their son and daughter-in-law. In addition, they would also like to travel and look forward to more time for reading, arts and crafts and relaxation.
Anthony Rickert Bus Driver Transportation Department 7 Years
Anthony joined District 15 in 2013 and served as a Bus Driver in the Transportation Department.
Pat Robinson
One on One Program Assistant, AIME (Alternate Instruction for Meaning ful Education) Program Frank C. Whiteley Elementary School 12 Years Patsy joined District 15 in 2008 as served as a One on One Program Assistant, AIME (Alternate Instruction for Meaningful Education) Program at Frank C. Whiteley Elementary School. She has served in various capacities during her time in the District including work at Winston Campus Elementary and Conyers Learning Academy. Mrs. Robinson has 5 children, 7 grandchildren and another one on the way! Upon retirement, Patsy plans to enjoy & spend time with my family, my 16
Donna Rusk
Pam Seick
Special Education Program Assistant Thomas Jefferson Elementary School 21 Years
Senior Executive Assistant to the Assistant Superintendent for Teaching & Learning Joseph M. Kiszka Educational Service Center 18 Years
Donna joined District 15 and served as a Special Education Program Assistant in a Primary LEAP (Learning Environment for Academic Progress) classroom at Thomas Jefferson Elementary School. She began her career in the District at Gray M. Sanborn (1999-2003) and also served at a number of other schools: Frank C. Whiteley (2003-2011), Willow Bend (2011-2016), as well as Thomas Jefferson (2016-2020). Donna served as a Union Rep from 2002-2020 for the Educational Support Personnel Association. In May, 2006, she was awarded the Superintendent’s Communication Council Employee Recognition. Mrs. Rusk is an alumna of Winston Park (grades 5th-8th) when there was no Winston Campus. Her four children also went through District 15. Donna and her husband have four married children and six grandchildren! Upon retirement, Mrs. Rusk wants to travel to see family and friends and spend time with the grandchildren.
Pam joined the District in 2002 and served as a Senior Executive Assistant to the Assistant Superintendent for Teaching & Learning. She began her career as a Secretary in the Business Department, working on accounts receivable and transportation payroll. In July 2006, Mrs. Seick was promoted to Senior Executive Assistant in the Department of Teaching and Learning. In 2004, she received the Award of Excellence from the District and in 2017 received the Illinois State Board of Education’s Those Who Excel Award of Excellence. Pam has a son and daughter, Ryan and Colleen, a daughter-in-law, Brett, and 2 adorable granddaughters, Madison and Olivia. Upon retirement, she plans to get more involved with the Citizens for Conservation, learn more about bringing back pollinators and butterflies and enjoy her garden. In addition, Pam’s retirement list includes traveling and doing a variety of leisure activities.
Megan Schlobohm
Judith Shanahan
Fifth-Sixth Grade Gifted Teacher Pleasant Hill Elementary School 33 Years
Nurse Carl Sandburg Junior High School 21 Years
Megan joined District 15 in 1987 and served as the Fifth-Sixth Grade Gifted Teacher at Pleasant Hill Elementary School. She began her career in the District as a Gifted/Talented Pull-out Teacher at Central Road, Hunting Ridge, Willow Bend and Winston Campus (1987-1994) and then moved to Hunting Ridge where she taught 4th Grade (19942004). Beginning in 2004, Mrs. Schlobohm taught the 3rd-4th Grade Gifted/Talented class before moving in 2017 to 5th-6th Grades. Prior to joining the District, Megan served as a 4th Grade Teacher in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin (1984-1987).
Judy joined District 15 in 1999 and served as a Nurse at Carl Sandburg Junior High School.
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Carol Skoog
Debby Sorensen
Carol joined District 15 in 1986 and served as a Kindergarten Teacher at Thomas Jefferson Elementary School. Her first year in the district, Mrs. Skoog was a Kindergarten Teacher at Stuart R. Paddock School and then moved to Jane Addams where she spent over 11 years teaching Kindergarten, 5th Grade, 3rd Grade, and 5th/6th multi-age (Operation P.R.I.D.E.). Mrs. Skoog spent the last 18 years teaching at Thomas Jefferson Elementary School teaching Kindergarten and 4th Grade. Prior to joining the District, Carol taught Kindergarten, as well as 1st-2nd Grades.
Debby began her career in District 15 in 1995 and served as Special Education Teacher at Virginia Lake Elementary School for eight years. She also served in the same capacity at Stuart R. Paddock Elementary for four years. Additionally, she was Assistant Principal at Frank C. Whiteley, Kimball Hill and Lincoln School for a total of seven years. During the past six years, she worked as a Special Education teacher teaching small group reading and writing classes for 8th graders and was a co-teacher in the ELA department at Winston Junior High. Debby and her husband Matt have three grown sons, Justin, Kyle and Connor, who is currently studying business at the University of Illinois at Chicago. Upon retirement, Debby plans on spending time with family, friends and ultimately starting a new endeavor.
Kindergarten Teacher Thomas Jefferson Elementary School 34 Years
Special Education Teacher Winston Campus Junior High School 25 Years
Mrs. Skoog’s husband, George, opened his dental practice in Palatine the same year that she started teaching in District 15. Palatine definitely became their home personally and professionally. Their two children went through District 15 schools and are now both successful young adults beginning their careers. Carol feels blessed with a beautiful, caring family.
Lois Southard
Building Secretary Plum Grove Junior High School 21 Years
Julie Simpson
Building Secretary Hunting Ridge Elementary School 24 Years
Lois joined District 15 in 1999 and served as the Building Secretary at Plum Grove Junior High School.
Julie joined District 15 in 1996 and served as the Building Secretary at Jane Addams and Hunting Ridge Elementary Schools. She is looking forward to spending more time with her family and grandson in this next chapter of her life.
Elizabeth Stephan Fifth Grade Teacher Hunting Ridge Elementary School 18 Years Elizabeth joined District 15 in 2002 and served as a Fifth Grade Teacher at Hunting Ridge 18
Elementary School. She started in the District as a substitute teacher in 1999, covering classrooms for one in Deb Morrison (Kindergarten) and Marcia Rydquist (6th Grade Gifted). Mrs. Stephan was then interviewed by David Corbett and offered a position. She went back to school to get her Masters in Education and worked as substitute teacher during the transition. Diane Murphy called to interview Elizabeth for a 5th Grade position at Hunting Ridge and she has been in that post since 2005! Prior to joining the District, Mrs. Stephan served as a 2nd3rd Grade Loop Teacher at Pritchett Elementary in Buffalo Grove (2003-2005). Elizabeth is married to her husband, Mark, and has 3 children, Blake, Luke and Taylor, 2 daughters-in-law, Holly and Emily, and 4 grandchildren, Maddox, Isla, Duncan and Hunter. Upon retirement, she plans to substitute teach in District 15 and continue to run her Irrigation Business. Most importantly: SEE GRANDKIDS A LOT!!!!
Karen Surdynski
Learning Resource Center Teacher Hunting Ridge and Pleasant Hill Elementary Schools 13 Years Karen joined District 15 in 2008 and served as the Learning Resource Center Teacher (LRC) at Hunting Ridge and Pleasant Hill Elementary Schools. Prior to joining the District, Mrs. Surdynski worked for Lake Zurich District 95 for 13 years. She is a member of both the Illinois Education Association and National Education Association. Karen and her husband, Phil, have been married 45 years. They have a son, William, married to Jaime and one grandson Isaac, 3 years old. Upon retirement, Karen plans to travel, spend time with family, garden, and donate time to the Red Cross.
Linda Sullivan
Sheri Tarr
Band Director Frank C. Whiteley and Marion Jordan Elementary Schools 17 Years
Second Grade Teacher Jane Addams Elementary School 25 Years
Linda joined District 15 in 2003 and served as Band Director at Frank C. Whiteley and Marion Jordan Elementary Schools.
Sheri joined District 15 in 1995 and served as Substitute teacher for several years. Began teaching first grade at Jane Addams in 1995. Have been teaching second grade since 2012. I am looking forward to spending time with family and friends. I plan on keeping active by hiking, biking, and kayaking. We look forward to many visits to national parks in the future. Of course, I will be returning to Jane Addams as a substitute.
Deborah Sumpter Bus Driver Transportation Department 32 Years
Deb joined District 15 in 1988 and served as a Bus Driver in the Transportation Department.
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Seema T haker, L CSW
Margaret Unger
Seema joined District 15 in 1992 and served as a School Social Worker at Marion Jordan and Virginia Lake Elementary Schools. She began her career in the District at Pleasant Hill and Paddock Elementary Schools. A few years later, Mrs. Thaker was fortunate enough to work alongside my bicultural & bilingual colleagues at The Newcomer’s Center. When the grant ended, she spent sixteen wonderful years at Central Road Elementary School. Seema’s last 4 years were no less amazing for she learned and was blessed to be at Marion Jordan School, Conyers Learning Academy and Virginia Lake School. Prior to joining the District, Mrs. Thaker served as a Social Worker for 3 years at S.E.D.O.L. (Special Education District of Lake County).
Marge joined District 15 in 1987 and served as a Special Education Program Assistant at Carl Sandburg Junior High School. She served as a Special Education Program Assistant at a number of schools through the District including: Frank C. Whiteley (1993-1999), Plum Grove Junior High School (1999-2001), Winston Campus Junior High School (2001-2002), Plum Grove Junior High School (2002-2003), as well as Carl Sandburg (20032020). Prior to joining the District, Mrs. Unger served as a Noon Hour Supervisor at Winston Churchill Elementary School (1987-1993). She was awarded the Illinois State Board of Education’s Those Who Excel Award of Merit in 2016. Additionally, Mrs. Unger worked at the before and after school CARE program from 1997 to 2020. Marge has two adult daughters, Corrie Fountain and Cathy Theodore, and several grandpets! Upon retirement, she looks forward to traveling, spending time with family and friends, gardening and volunteering for a cancer hospice.
School Social Worker Marion Jordan and Virginia Lake Elementary Schools 27 Years
Special Education Program Assistant Carl Sandburg Junior High School 33 Years
Gail Tomal
Learning Resource Center Teacher Lake Louise and Marion Jordan Elementary Schools 34 and 1/2 Years
William Veschuroff
Gail joined District 15 in 1986 and served as the Learning Resource Center Teacher (LRC) at Lake Louise and Marion Jordan Elementary Schools. She began her career in the District as the MJ LRC as a long term sub in 1986. In 2001, Mrs. Tomal worked as a District Instructional Technology Coach for a time and then returned to the MJ LRC. Since 2017, she has been splitting her time between Lake Louise and Marion Jordan. Gail and her husband, Gary, have three daughters. Elizabeth, Melanie and Allison. Upon retirement, the Tomals plan to travel and spend more time with family and friends.
Maintenance Technician Environmental Services 36 Years
Bill joined District 15 in 1984 and served as a Maintenance Technician in the Environmental Services Department.
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in her career and was nominated for the Golden Apple Award in 2000. Mrs. Waitzman has been married to her high school sweetheart, Joe, since 1983. They have two daughters, Jody and Jessica, two sonsin-law, Mike and Kye, and are blessed to have two grandchildren, Violet (9) and Joseph (4). They added their sixth Labrador Retriever, Jett, to their family and at present, he is the only child still living at home! Upon retirement, the Waitzmans intend to relocate to Southern Illinois where they can surround themselves with land and nature. Wendy’s hope is to acquire a She Shed for her wood burning hobby and add goats and a miniature horse to her menagerie.
Patricia Ann Voth Vena First-Second Grade Bilingual Teacher Stuart R. Paddock Elementary School 27 Years
Patricia joined District 15 in 1993 and served as a 1st-2nd Grade Bilingual Teacher at Stuart R. Paddock Elementary School. Prior to joining the District, Mrs. Voth Vena served as a Bilingual Teacher in Argentina and in Cicero, Illinois, as well. Patricia and her husband, Osvaldo, have two children: Matias Vena (son), Julian Vena (son- teaches in District 15 at Jane Addams) as well as a daughterin-law, Michele (daughter in law), and granddaughter, Acacia. Upon retirement, she plans to relax, travel when possible and spend lots of time with family and friends.
Barbara Walt
Nurse Plum Grove Junior High School 27 Years Barb joined District 15 in 1991 and served as a Nurse at Plum Grove Junior High School. Mrs. Walt also served at Hunting Ridge Elementary School. She is married and has three children and two grandsons.
Wendy Waitzman SEAL (Social Emotional Academic Learning) Teacher Marion Jordan Elementary School 25 Years
Susan Warren
Wendy joined District 15 in 1995 and served as a SEAL (Social Emotional Academic Learning) Teacher at Marion Jordan Elementary School. She began her career in the District with her “dream job” as a SEAL teacher in 1995 at Willow Bend and then moved to Thomas Jefferson in 2005 as a Special Education Resource Teacher. Mrs. Waitzman returned to Willow Bend in 2015 as a SEAL teacher and then moved her classroom to Marion Jordan in 2016. Prior to joining the District, Mrs. Waitzman worked as a Special Education Teacher in Matteson, Illinois (1982). She stayed home with her children from 1984-1992, and then returned to the workforce as a substitute teacher until being hired in a Multiple Needs classroom in District 54. Wendy earned an Employee of the Month Recognition way back when she was first at Willow Bend. She has received the Superintendent’s Recognition three times
Building Secretary Thomas Jefferson Elementary School 33 Years
Sue joined District 15 in 1987 and served as the Building Secretary at Thomas Jefferson Elementary School where she spent 28 years. She began her career as the Office Clerical at Stuart R. Paddock (1987-1989) and the Office Clerical at Frank C. Whiteley (1989-1992). Mrs. Warren and her husband, Chris, have been married 44 years. They have two children, Tom and Doug, and five grandchildren, Christopher, Joshua, James, Anna, and Emma. 21
Doris Weis
Mary Wozniak
Doris joined District 15 in 2020 and served as a Resource Teacher at Hunting Ridge Elementary School. She began her career in the District as a Program Assistant (2000) and also served in other roles at Hunting Ridge: Kindergarten3rd Grade Resource Teacher (2003-2005), 1st Grade Teacher (2005-2016) and Kindergarten-6th Grade Resource Teacher (2016-2020). Doris also served as a 5th-6th Grade Resource Teacher at Lincoln Elementary School in 2002. Prior to joining the District, Mrs. Weis served as a Kindergarten-6th Grade Resource Teacher in Champaign, Illinois (1981), and a Teacher for the Learning Disabled in a self-contained 4th-5th Grades classroom in Northlake, Illinois. Doris is married to her husband, Walt, and has three children: Anthony (wife, Katie, and son, Rohnan), Alex, and Liz.
Mary joined District 15 in 1998 and served as a Special Education Teacher at Plum Grove Junior High School. Prior to joining the District, she served as a Special Education Teacher at Community Consolidated District 300 (1995-1998). Among Mrs. Wozniak’s accomplishments are: Phi Theta Kappa William Rainey Harper/President, Phi Beta Kappa Northern Illinois University/President, and Who’s Who/Northern Illinois University. In 2011, Mary married her kindergarten boyfriend, Paul. In her blended family they have 10 adult children across three states and now 15 grandchildren who range from the age of one month to 26 years old! They also now have an Old English Sheepdog, Grace, who keeps them quite busy on a daily basis. By October, they will welcome their first great grandchild. Mary and her late husband, Gary Clements, had four children, Christina, Ginger, Tracy and Andrew who all attended Stuart R. Paddock Elementary School as well as Plum Grove Junior High School. The District 15 Family has been an important part of the Clements/Wozniak family for many wonderful years. Upon retirement, Mary plans to focus on travel, genealogy, writing, photography, art and most important, family. She looks forward to being in demand for entertaining grandchildren. In addition, Mary expects to have the time now to continue research on family history and focus her writing on the more puzzling, adventurous and twisted branches she has already discovered on her climb back in time.
Resource Teacher Hunting Ridge Elementary School 20 Years
Special Education Teacher Plum Grove Junior High School 22 Years
Sally Whitney
Office Clerical Assistant Carl Sandburg Junior High School 33 Years Sally joined District 15 in 1987 and served as an Office Clerical Assistant at Carl Sandburg Junior High School. She also spent time working at the Rolling Meadows Library. Sally is married to her husband, Dave, has two sons, Alan and Kevin, two daughters-in-law, and four grandchildren. Upon retirement, Mrs. Whitney plans on more volunteering, hiking, biking and spending time with family.
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our years of commitment and dedication to your profession and to District 15 have made a tremendous difference in this community and in the lives of thousands of young people you have served. T hank you, and best wishes for a happy and healthy retirement!
Community Consolidated School District 15 Board of Education Lisa Szczupaj, President
Frank J. Annerino, Vice President Samantha Ader, Secretary Wenda Hunt Zubair Khan Michael Smolka Anthony Wang
Superintendent of Schools Laurie Heinz, Ed.D.