2024-25 CCSD15 Retiree Recognition Program

Community Consolidated School District 15

2024-2025

Retiree Recognition May 14, 2025

Celebration

Education is not the filling of a pail, but the lighting of a fire.

—William Butler Yeats

A teacher takes a hand, opens a mind, and touches a heart.

—Author Unknown

Age is only a number, a cipher for the records.

A man can’t retire his experience.

He must use it.

—Bernard Baruch

How lucky I am to have something that makes saying goodbye so hard.

—A. A. Milne

May 14, 2025

Dear District 15 Retiree:

As we approach the end of another school year, what a tremendous range of emotions you must be experiencing as a soon-to-be retiree! I know I am feeling a deep sense of pride and gratitude toward the work you have done on behalf of students and alongside your colleagues in this wonderful district.

On behalf of the Board of Education and me, I wish to extend a sincere congratulations to each of you on your retirement. Your years of service and dedication to District 15 have certainly made a positive impact on so many students, families, and colleagues. Whether you have worked directly with students or provided the vital support that enables our schools and staff to do their jobs effectively, your many contributions did not go unnoticed.

Together, the 59 members of the Class of 2025 have a combined total of 1,321 years of service!

And even more amazing, 40 of you have been with the District for 20 years or more, 16 of you for more than 30 years, and 3 of you have dedicated 35 years to District 15! These statistics are simply awe-inspiring. Although the work we do can be hard, such longevity illustrates what so many members of the staff have always known—people come to District 15 and build a career.

As the school year draws to a close and you begin to dream of how to write your next chapter, I hope you feel nothing but a true sense of accomplishment knowing that your efforts made an immeasurable difference in a way few careers are ever able to.

Best wishes on whatever pathway retirement finds you. In the words of Dr. Seuss, “You’re off to great places! Today is your day!

Your mountain is waiting … get on your way!”

With a deep sense of gratitude, Laurie Heinz, Ed.D. Superintendent of Schools

Community Consolidated School District 15

Board of Education Recognizes the

2024-2025 Retirees

The following is a list of Community Consolidated School District 15’s 2024-2025 class of retirees, many of whom have chosen to share stories of their careers for this momentous occasion.

Dawn Adamczyk

Pamela Baldus

Marion Jordan Elementary School

Hunting Ridge Elementary School

23 Years of Service

21 Years of Service

Dawn Adamczyk began her career in District 15 in 2001 as a kindergarten teacher at Marion Jordan Elementary. After a brief break, she returned and continued to serve Marion Jordan students and families with dedication from 2003 through 2025. Before joining District 15, she worked as a substitute teacher in District 95. Dawn looks forward to relaxing and enjoying her time as part of the ME Plan. Her fondest memories come from the friendships she’s made throughout her time in D15.

Pamela Baldus joined the district in 2004, and last served as a special education teacher at Hunting Ridge Elementary School.

Kindergarten Teacher

Special Education Teacher

Celeste Bechdolt Occupational Therapist

Kimball Hill Elementary School & Conyers Learning Academy

Jodi Antonik

7 Years of Service

Bilingual Resource/Spanish Teacher

Celeste Bechdolt began working in District 15 as a contracted occupational therapist in 2017 before officially joining the district in 2022. Throughout her time, she has supported students at both Kimball Hill and CLA with compassion and expertise. She has enjoyed contributing to student success and collaborating with staff across the district.

Walter R. Sundling Middle School

24 Years of Service Since 2000, Jodi Antonik has been an integral part of the D15 community, beginning with bilingual kindergarten before transitioning into Spanish instruction and bilingual resource support. Her teaching journey also includes time at Streamwood High School.

In retirement, Jodi looks forward to gardening, fostering dogs, and traveling with her husband. She cherishes the incredible friendships and supportive work family she built in District 15.

Adrienne Braun

Special Education Program Assistant Kimball Hill Elementary School

23 Years of Service Adrienne Braun joined the district in 2002, and last served as a special education program assistant at Kimball Hill Elementary School.

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Annette Bravos

Luz Cardenas

Jane Addams Elementary School

Hunting Ridge Elementary School

25 Years of Service

29 Years of Service

Annette Bravos joined the district in 2000, and last served as a special education resource teacher at Jane Addams Elementary School.

Luz Cardenas began her impactful career with District 15 in 1996, serving in various roles across Pleasant Hill, Kimball Hill, Winston Campus, and Thomas Jefferson. Throughout her nearly three decades of service, she supported students from all grade levels in bilingual and ESL settings, always championing their growth and success. With a background that includes teaching in Chicago Public Schools and higher education roles at institutions like Harper College and the University of Illinois at Chicago, Luz brought a wealth of experience and heart to the classroom. As she transitions into retirement, she looks forward to traveling, enjoying her hobbies, and spending quality time with loved ones both locally and abroad.

Special Education Teacher/Resource

ESL/Bilingual Resource

Lissete Cabrera Bilingual Spanish Teacher

Willow Bend Elementary School

31 Years of Service Lissete Cabrera began her career in District 15 in 1994, bringing dedication, warmth, and advocacy to every classroom she served. Over the years, she has taught students in both bilingual and mainstream classrooms, ranging from second through sixth grade. Most recently, she has supported fourth grade students in a bilingual capacity. Prior to her teaching career, Lissete worked in marketing and annuity pricing for over six years, eventually finding her passion in education. A proud mother of two adult children, Brittney and Brenden, Lissete leaves behind a legacy of care and excellence at Willow Bend.

Her decades of service reflect her commitment to language equity and academic success, and she will be greatly missed by students, families, and staff alike.

Amelia Cerda Bilingual Resource Teacher Lincoln Elementary School

25 Years of Service Amelia Cerda began her journey in District 15 in 2000, teaching bilingual first and second grade at Kimball Hill before moving to Lake Louise, where she taught second grade and multi-age classes. Since 2017, she has served as a bilingual resource teacher at Lincoln. Her career spans multiple states and grade levels, from first through sixth grade, bringing a wealth of experience to every classroom she entered. As she looks ahead, Amelia is excited to devote more time to her faith community, volunteer with adults with special needs, travel, read, and savor quality moments with family. She’s ready for this next chapter with joy and gratitude.

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Sharon Chuboff

Jim Dano

Nutrition Services, Central Kitchen

Pleasant Hill Elementary School

13 Years of Service

29 Years of Service

Sharon Chuboff joined District 15 in April 2012 as a Production Manager in Nutrition Services.

A licensed hairdresser by trade, Sharon brought a creative spirit and strong attention to detail into her work coordinating food preparation and organizing district catering events.

Married for 40 years and a proud mom of two adult children (and four beloved dogs), Sharon is most looking forward to becoming a grandmother in this next chapter of life.

Jim Dano began his District 15 journey in 1996, first supporting students as a oneon-one program assistant at Jane Addams Elementary School before stepping into the classroom full time. Since 1997, he has been a dedicated fourth-grade teacher at Pleasant Hill Elementary, bringing energy, creativity, and care to every lesson. Prior to education, Jim worked in business management and insurance, holding degrees in Business Management and Marketing. His passion for teaching stemmed from a desire to make a lasting impact—and that he did. Outside the classroom, Jim enjoys biking, hiking, and using his handyman skills to help others. He looks forward to traveling and spending more time with his wife, Mary, and their twin sons, Roarke and Graham. Jim’s legacy is one of positive relationships and meaningful impact on students and families alike.

Production Manager

Grade 4 Teacher

JoElle Cooper Bilingual Teacher

Carl Sandburg Middle School

33 Years of Service

Kathy Davie

JoElle Cooper began her journey in District 15 in 1992, teaching sixth-grade bilingual students at Virginia Lake before moving to Carl Sandburg Middle School, where she has taught seventh and eighth-grade bilingual students ever since. Her career in education began even earlier, including summers as a PE assistant and as a bilingual teacher in the Migrant Summer School Program. JoElle’s impact goes far beyond the classroom—she has led Latino Family Literacy Nights, launched the Wildcat Warehouse, and sponsored both the Dance Club and the Student Leadership & Service Club. She looks forward to continuing her volunteer work with Exodus World Service, spending more time with loved ones, traveling, and enjoying new hobbies. JoElle says it has been a privilege to work and learn alongside so many dedicated colleagues and inspiring students in District 15.

Program Assistant

Gray M. Sanborn Elementary School

24 Years of Service Kathy Davie began her career with District 15 in 2001 as a substitute teacher and transitioned to a Program Assistant at Gray M. Sanborn in 2019 after over a decade of consistent substitute work at the school. Known for her warmth and dedication, Kathy has loved supporting students and working alongside the amazing GMS staff. In retirement, she looks forward to spending more time with her family, traveling with her husband, and welcoming her first grandchild in June.

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Carmen Depena

Karen Evans

Gray M. Sanborn Elementary School

Kimball Hill Elementary School

27 Years of Service

25 Years of Service

Carmen Depena joined the district in 1997, and last served as a special education program assistant at Gray M. Sanborn Elementary School.

Karen Evans joined the district in 1999, and last served as a secretary at Kimball Hill Elementary School.

Special Education Program Assistant

Secretary

Christine Faflik

Barbara Downs

Bus Driver

Reading Consultant Specialist

Transportation Services

Hunting Ridge Elementary School

25 Years of Service

18 Years of Service

Christine Faflik joined the district in 1999, and last served as a bus driver in the Transportation Department.

Barbara Downs joined the district in 2007, and last served as a reading consultant specialist at Hunting Ridge Elementary School.

Sue Faulhaber,

Anthony Draegert

NBCT, MS, M.Ed.

Teacher of the Deaf/Hard of Hearing School District 15

PE Teacher

27 Years of Service

Pleasant Hill Elementary School

23 Years of Service

Sue Faulhaber began her journey with District 15 in 1998 as the district’s first Teacher of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing, laying the foundation for a program that now serves students across all 20 schools. Throughout her tenure, Sue traveled districtwide to support students through one-onone instruction, consultation, and classroom services. Her commitment expanded during a five-year period when she served a magnet group of students at Virginia Lake while

Anthony Draegert began his District 15 career in 2002 as a physical education teacher, initially serving the students of Lincoln School before joining the Pleasant Hill team in 2019. Prior to D15, he taught in Carthage and Mundelein, bringing with him a passion for student wellness and movement. Over his 23 years, Anthony built lasting relationships with students and colleagues, always prioritizing a positive and active learning environment.

He retires with deep appreciation for the community and memories made throughout his time in District 15.

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continuing to support other schools in the afternoons.

Prior to joining District 15, Sue worked in similar roles across Districts 112, 116, and at Evanston Township High School. A three-time National Board Certified Teacher, Sue is also an active member of the Illinois Teachers of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing. In retirement, she plans to continue supporting families through the Early Hearing Detection and Intervention (EHDI) program in hospitals and looks forward to traveling to Germany and France. Sue’s favorite memories include the incredible students she served, the parents she collaborated with, and the interpreters and educators who became dear friends.

Ellen Fuglestad,

NCSP

School Psychologist

Central Road and Marion Jordan Elementary Schools

31 Years of Service Ellen Fuglestad began her career in District 15 in 1994 and has since supported nearly every building across the district.

A nationally certified school psychologist (NCSP), Ellen has been a trusted partner in student development and staff collaboration for over three decades. She especially cherished watching students grow throughout their elementary years and maintaining strong connections with colleagues over the years. Ellen has lived in Cary since 2001 and takes pride in her two children—one of whom, Kate, also works in District 15. In retirement, Ellen looks forward to continuing her work part-time in school psychology and enjoying long weekends, friendships, and a more flexible pace of life.

Laura Franz

Academic Interventionist Lake Louise Elementary School

14 Years of Service Laura Franz joined the district in 2011, and last served as an academic interventionist at Lake Louise Elementary School.

Adan Garcia

Lori Frasco

Custodian

Special Education Program Assistant

Gray M. Sanborn Elementary School

Conyers Learning Academy

28 Years of Service

15 Years of Service

Adan Garcia joined the district in September 1996, and last served as a custodian at Gray M. Sanborn Elementary School.

Lori Frasco joined the district in 2010, and last served as a special education program assistant at John G. Conyers Learning Academy.

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organizations. She and her husband Joe are excited to retire somewhere warm, spend time outdoors yearround, and make memories with their children and new granddaughter, Isabella. Paula says her favorite part of working in District 15 was the diversity of students and staff and cherishes the community that became an extension of her family—especially the time she performed an Italian aria for the entire school!

Donna Gibson Reading Consultant Specialist

Stuart R. Paddock Elementary School

27 Years of Service Donna Gibson began her journey in District 15 in 1998 as a Reading Consultant Specialist at Stuart R. Paddock Elementary School, a role she proudly held throughout her tenure. Prior to joining District 15, she taught Early Childhood, Pre-K, Kindergarten, and also served as a Reading Specialist. Donna is a National Board Certified Teacher who values the relationships she’s built with students, families, and colleagues over nearly three decades. She looks forward to traveling, relaxing, and spending time with her husband Dennis, daughters Kara and Katie, stepchildren Morgan and Danny, and her first two grandchildren, expected this August.

Linda R. Golz

Special Education Program Assistant Kimball Hill Elementary School

3 Years of Service Linda Golz joined District 15 in August 2022 as a dedicated Program Assistant at Kimball Hill Elementary School.

Prior to her time with the district, she worked as a dental assistant, basketball scorekeeper, and in medical records— bringing with her a breadth of experience and a strong work ethic. Although she chose not to share a formal writeup, we extend our heartfelt thanks to Linda for her service to the students and staff of Kimball Hill.

Paula McManis Golemba Grade 1 Teacher

Manuel Gomez

Pleasant Hill Elementary School

Lincoln Elementary School

Custodian

15 Years of Service

26 Years of Service

Paula McManis Golemba began her District 15 journey in November 2010, teaching 3rd grade at Hunting Ridge before joining Pleasant Hill, where she taught across grades 1, 5, and 6. Her career in education spans decades, including prior roles in Darien, Cary, and District 26. Known for her deep passion for history and curriculum development, Paula is a proud member of several national historical and educational

Manuel Gomez joined the district in October 1999, and last served as a custodian at Lincoln Elementary School.

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David Haynes

Tricia Kehm

Jane Addams Elementary School

Pleasant Hill Elementary School

4 Years of Service

35 Years of Service

David Haynes joined the district in May 2020, and last served as a head custodian at Jane Addams Elementary School.

Tricia Kehm began her teaching career in District 15 in 1990 at Jane Addams Elementary School. After taking a short leave to raise her children, she returned and continued teaching kindergarten at Pleasant Hill, where she remained until her retirement. Over the course of 35 years, Tricia has brought warmth, consistency, and a deep love of learning to her classroom. She looks forward to spending more time with family and friends, visiting her lake homes in the Ozarks and Arizona, and finally enjoying the luxury of sleeping in. Tricia is grateful for the friendships she’s built along the way and the joyful memories she will carry into retirement.

Head Custodian

Kindergarten Teacher

Jane Kay

Special Education Teacher Pleasant Hill Elementary School

20 Years of Service Jane Kay began her career in District 15 in 2000 as a Special Education Resource Teacher at Stuart R. Paddock. After a brief pause, she returned in 2006 and has proudly served at Pleasant Hill for the past 19 years. Jane’s educational journey spans multiple roles, including 6th grade general education and various special education positions in NSSEO and Round Lake District 116. Her most cherished memories stem from the deep relationships she’s built with students, families, and staff over the years. Jane looks forward to spending more time traveling and connecting with loved ones in retirement. It has been an honor to have her as part of the District 15 community.

Michael Kim Program Assistant

Gray M. Sanborn Elementary School

5 Years of Service Michael Kim joined the district in November 2019, and last served as a program assistant at Gray M. Sanborn Elementary School.

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Gail King

Jacqueline Renee Kravitz

Special Education Program Assistant Carl Sandburg Middle School

4th Grade Teacher

24 Years of Service

Gray M. Sanborn Elementary School

Gail King began her career with District 15 in 2001. Over the years, she held a variety of roles, beginning in food service and later serving as a Program Assistant at Kimball Hill, Conyers Learning Academy, and ultimately Carl Sandburg. Gail is known for her positivity, dedication, and the meaningful relationships she built with staff and students alike. Her favorite memories are rooted in the camaraderie she shared with her colleagues, whom she describes as truly amazing. In retirement, Gail looks forward to enjoying time with her husband Steve, daughter Kate, son-in-law Corey, and granddaughter Nora.

32 Years of Service Jacqueline Kravitz has dedicated her entire 32-year teaching career to Gray M. Sanborn Elementary School, where she taught a wide range of grade levels and roles—from fourth grade, fifth grade, sixth grade, and multi-age classrooms, to serving as a Library Resource Teacher and Kindergarten teacher. Jackie began her career in marketing before following her heart into education, earning her MAT from National Louis University. Sanborn became more than a workplace—it became her second home. She got engaged, married, had children, and celebrated life’s biggest milestones while teaching at Sanborn, turning 30, 40, 50, and 60 all within its walls. Jackie and her husband Scott have two children, Joshua and Sarah, and a beloved shih-poo named Scarlet Begonia. She looks forward to a new chapter filled with joy and balance. As she steps into retirement, Jackie takes with her cherished memories of supporting students academically, socially, and emotionally—and the deep relationships she formed with staff, students, families, and her community. Once a Tiger, always a Tiger!

Dr. Claire Kowalczyk Administrator on Special Assignment

Joseph M. Kiszka Educational Service Center

17 Years of Service Dr. Claire Kowalczyk began her career in District 15 in 1997 as an early childhood and general education teacher before serving as Assistant Principal at Kimball Hill. After time away serving as a principal in another district, she returned in 2019 as Deputy Superintendent and now concludes her career as an Administrator on Special Assignment. Claire is a National Board Certified Teacher and holds a Professional Human Capital Leadership certification. A longtime Palatine resident, she and her husband of 38 years have five children and four grandchildren. Claire looks forward to traveling and spending time with her family. She will miss the incredible people of District 15 and is proud to have both started and ended her career in such a special community.

Michael Lind Bus Driver

Transportation Services

1 Year Michael Kim joined the district in September 2024, and last served as a bus driver in the Transportation Department.

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Lori Hinton Lopez,

Kara Marks

PH.D.

Assistant Superintendent for Teaching, Learning, & Assessment

School Social Worker

Pleasant Hill Elementary School

Joseph M. Kiszka Educational Service Center

30 Years of Service

2 Years of Service

Kara Marks began her District 15 journey in 1995 and has dedicated the past three decades to supporting students and families across multiple schools, including early childhood programs at Marion Jordan, Jane Addams, Thomas Jefferson, Central Road, and Conyers Learning Academy, as well as Hunting Ridge and Pleasant Hill Elementary Schools. Prior to joining District 15, she worked as a school social worker in Kansas for two years.

Kara is most proud of the meaningful relationships she built with students, many of whom have shared how the tools and strategies she taught them are still making an impact in their lives. In retirement, Kara looks forward to taking art and exercise classes, volunteering in the theater world, and fully embracing her favorite role—being a full-time mom to her 13-year-old son, Jordan. She leaves behind a legacy of empathy, encouragement, and a deep love for the students she served.

Dr. Lori Lopez brought over three decades of leadership experience in education to District 15 when she joined as Assistant Superintendent for Teaching, Learning, & Assessment in 2023.

Prior to her time here, she served in roles including principal, assistant principal, curriculum coordinator, professional learning director, and classroom teacher in both general education and gifted education.

With plans to pursue a degree in social work and hike through the U.S. National Parks, Lori is excited to explore her next chapter. She also looks forward to volunteering in classrooms and improving her Spanish fluency. Lori shares that her favorite part of District 15 has been its “superpower”—the dedicated and passionate educators she had the pleasure to work alongside. She will miss the collaboration and community deeply.

Kim Markiewicz

Betsy Mensch

Payroll Specialist

Special Education Program Assistant

Joseph M. Kiszka Educational Service Center

Conyers Learning Academy

25 Years of Service

16 Years of Service

Kim Markiewicz joined the district in August 2000, and last served as a payroll specialist in the Business Department for School District 15.

Betsy Mensch joined the district in September 2009, and last served as a special education program assistant at John G. Conyers Learning Academy.

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Minerva Milford

Lesa Northam,

Plum Grove Middle School

Plum Grove Middle School

26 Years of Service

21 Years of Service

Minerva Milford began her career with District 15 in August 1999 as a Spanish teacher at Plum Grove Middle School, where she dedicated her entire career to helping students grow in their language learning and cultural understanding. Before entering education, Minerva worked as a medical technologist, making a career shift that led her to positively impact countless students over the years.

A proud mother of two—Mark Anthony and Brittney— Minerva is also eagerly anticipating the arrival of her first grandchild. A three-time National Board Certified Teacher and National Education Association Fellow, Minerva is deeply passionate about education. In retirement, she looks forward to embracing the joys of grandparenthood, traveling, enjoying her hobbies, and cherishing time with family. Minerva is especially grateful for the meaningful relationships she built during her years in D15 and the growth she witnessed in her students.

Lesa Northam joined the district in 2004, and last served as a physical education teacher at Plum Grove Middle School.

Spanish Teacher

MA, EdL

Physical Education Teacher

Patti Palmer

Middle School Math Teacher Walter R. Sundling Middle School

31 Years of Service Patti Palmer began her career in District 15 in 1994, teaching 7th and 8th grade math at Winston Campus before moving to Walter R. Sundling in 2017, where she continued to inspire students as a 7th grade prealgebra and algebra teacher. Prior to joining D15, she taught 8th grade math at Carpentersville Middle School for three years. Patti has cherished the opportunity to work alongside incredible colleagues, many of whom became close friends—including her husband Adam, whom she met during her first year of teaching at Winston. As she steps into retirement, Patti looks forward to traveling and spending more time with her family.

Deborah Mosher LRC Clerical

Thomas Jefferson Middle School

5 Years of Service Deborah Mosher joined the District 15 team in 2020 as the library clerical at Thomas Jefferson Middle School. Prior to her time in D15, Deborah had a long and impactful career as a classroom teacher in Skokie Districts 73.5 and 72, serving students from 1981 to 2020. As she looks ahead to retirement, Deborah plans to spend time traveling and volunteering. She shared how much she enjoyed her time supporting the TJMS library and working alongside staff and students.

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Sue Pautler

Julie A. Quitschau

Kimball Hill Elementary School

Thomas Jefferson Middle School, and Frank C. Whiteley and Marion Jordan Elementary Schools

Kindergarten Teacher

Orchestra Teacher

33 Years of Service

26 Years of Service

Sue Pautler began her District 15 journey in 1988, teaching 3rd and 4th grade at Pleasant Hill. After a brief leave to spend time with family, she returned to the district in 2000 and served in a variety of roles, including classroom teacher at Willow Bend and Kimball Hill, administrator at Sanborn, and reading specialist at both Kimball Hill and Thomas Jefferson. Over her career, Sue has impacted generations of learners with warmth, energy, and care.

Alongside her husband Steve, she has raised five sons and now enjoys being a proud grandmother to three granddaughters. Sue is deeply grateful for the opportunity to work with such dedicated educators and feels honored to have been part of the District 15 family.

Julie Quitschau joined the district in August 1999, and last served as an orchestra teacher at Thomas Jefferson Middle School, and Frank C. Whiteley and Marion Jordan Elementary Schools.

Maura Reid History Teacher

Plum Grove Middle School

35 Years of Service

John Peterson

Maura Reid began her teaching career at Plum Grove Middle School in 1990 and has proudly remained part of the PG family ever since. Over the years, she has taught both ELA and history, sharing her love of learning with generations of students. Some of her fondest memories include historical reenactments, spirit weeks, and celebrating school traditions alongside her four daughters, who also attended Plum Grove. Her husband, Kyle, has been a long-standing member of the D15 family as well, working at Winston Campus for three decades. In retirement, Maura looks forward to spending more time with family, biking, reading, relaxing, and traveling.

Shop Foreman

Transportation Services

35 Years of Service John Peterson joined the district in November 1989, and last served as a shop foreman in the Transportation Department.

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Pam Rogers

Kristi Schwarz

Central Road Elementary School

Hunting Ridge Elementary School

30½ Years of Service

25 Years of Service

Pam Rogers began her journey with District 15 in November 1994, serving as the dedicated secretary at Central Road Elementary School for more than three decades. Known for her warm presence and unwavering reliability, Pam has been a steady, supportive force for students, staff, and families alike. Her favorite part of working in District 15 has been the close-knit community and strong relationships she’s built over the years— especially with her Central Road family, who have made each day meaningful. As she enters retirement, Pam looks forward to embracing new adventures while carrying the cherished memories from her time at Central Road.

Kristi Schwarz began her journey in District 15 in 2000, where she served in a variety of impactful roles including Special Education Teacher in the SIP Program, Inclusion Facilitator, and Kindergarten Teacher. With an educational career spanning 38 years, Kristi also taught in the Catholic school system and in Fox River Grove before finding her professional home at Hunting Ridge.

She and her husband Tom raised their children—Luke, Sarah, and Isabel—all proud D15 alums. Kristi’s team was honored with the Those Who Excel Award for their work supporting students with autism, a reflection of her deep commitment to inclusive education. As she steps into retirement, Kristi looks forward to resting and embracing whatever adventure comes next. She is most grateful for the many people in District 15 who became like family over the years.

Secretary

Kindergarten Teacher

Larry Sasso

Administrator of Special Assignment Joseph M. Kiszka Educational Service Center

14 Years of Service

Debbie Sheehan

Larry Sasso began his journey in District 15 in 2011 as the proud principal of Thomas Jefferson Elementary School, a role he held until the school’s closure in 2024. Prior to joining District 15, he served as a social worker at Thomas Middle School in Arlington Heights School District 25 and later as principal of Lincoln Hall Middle School in Lincolnwood District 74. Larry’s leadership in District 15 was rooted in creating supportive environments where students could learn, grow, and thrive. He is grateful for the relationships he built along the way and looks forward to spending more time with his wife, Lisa, and their children, Elena and Paul.

1:1 Program Assistant

Gray M. Sanborn Elementary School

10 Years of Service Debbie Sheehan joined District 15 in 2014 as a 1:1 Program Assistant and has brought warmth, dedication, and humor to every role she has held since. From her beginnings at Whiteley to her years at Sanborn, Debbie has supported AIME and MILE classrooms with care and consistency. Prior to joining D15, she worked for 15 years in District 47 in Crystal Lake and at Canterbury.

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A lifelong Arlington Heights native and proud graduate of Arlington High School, Debbie has been married to her high school sweetheart for 40 years. She is the proud mom of three adult children, two in-law children, and three wonderful grandchildren—twin grandsons and a granddaughter. In retirement, Debbie looks forward to visiting her family, crafting handmade cards, scrapbooking, reading, and cheering on the Chicago Bears. Her favorite part of District 15 has been working alongside supportive colleagues who have made the journey memorable and meaningful.

Margaret B. Swierad Line Coordinator Nutrition Services

30 Years of Service Margaret Swierad began her journey with District 15 in August 1995 as a Line Coordinator at Walter R. Sundling. For nearly three decades, she has brought dedication, positivity, and care to her role, helping ensure that every student received nutritious meals with a smile. Married, a mother of four, and a proud grandmother of ten, Margaret has balanced her family life with a career she found both challenging and rewarding. She fondly reflects on the many wonderful people she has met throughout her time in the district and the lasting memories created along the way. Margaret says she will treasure those moments forever.

Martin Snook Head Custodian

Stuart R. Paddock Elementary School

32 Years of Service Martin Snook joined the district in November 1993, and last served as a head custodian at Stuart R. Paddock Elementary School.

Marcia T hompson

Karen Stiff

Coordinator, Nutrition Services Pleasant Hill Elementary School

Program Assistant

16 Years of Service

Carl Sandburg Middle School

25 Years of Service

Marcia Thompson joined District 15 in 2009 as the Nutrition Services Coordinator at Pleasant Hill Elementary School. With 15 years of dedicated service, Marcia played a key role in ensuring our students were nourished and supported every single day. Her commitment to excellence and care helped create a welcoming cafeteria environment that was both efficient and friendly. While Marcia opted not to include additional details, her years of service have left a meaningful impact on the Pleasant Hill community and District 15 as a whole. We thank her for her dedication and wish her the very best in retirement.

Karen Stiff joined the district in November 1999, and last served as a program assistant at Carl Sandburg Middle School.

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Mark Tobin

Eric Young

Carl Sandburg Middle School

Walter R. Sundling Middle School

31 Years of Service

34 Years of Service

Mark Tobin began his career with District 15 in August 1994, spending over three decades shaping students’ health and wellness through physical education. During his tenure, he taught a wide range of subjects including 7th grade science, 7th and 8th grade science tech lab, and physical education for 6th through 8th graders. Prior to joining District 15, Mark taught 7th grade science in Houston, Texas. His commitment to educating the whole child has made a lasting impact on countless students and colleagues. We thank Mark for his many years of service and wish him a fulfilling retirement.

Eric Young began his career at Walter R. Sundling Middle School in 1991 and proudly spent his entire 34-year career at the same building. Known for his passion for history, dedication to coaching, and quick wit in the classroom, Eric also earned accolades such as PTA Teacher of the Year and Barnes and Noble Regional Teacher of the Year. His career highlights include winning the Christopher A. Norton Wrestling Tournament and District Championship in his final year of coaching. Eric credits his wife Christine, son Alex, and daughter-in-law Dr. Rachel Bond-Young for being his rock throughout his journey. In retirement, he looks forward to traveling, writing, and indulging in his love of cooking. Above all, he reflects fondly on the relationships formed with students and colleagues over the years, noting, “A job is a job, but the people you work with make it special.”

Physical Education Teacher

Social Science Teacher

Ann Vatch Grade 5 Teacher

Willow Bend Elementary School

31 Years of Service Ann Vatch joined the district in 1994 as a TIP Tutor, and last served as a fifth-grade teacher at Willow Bend Elementary School.

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Community Consolidated School District 15 Community Consolidated School District 15 580 N. 1st Bank Drive, Palatine IL 60067 Phone: 847-963-3000 https://www.ccsd15.net

Marion Jordan Elementary 100 N. Harrison Avenue, Palatine IL 60067 Phone: 847-963-5500 https://mj.ccsd15.net

John G. Conyers Learning Academy (Early Learning Center) 2800 Central Road, Rolling Meadows IL 60008 Phone: 847-963-3400 https://elc.ccsd15.net

Pleasant Hill Elementary 434 W. Illinois Avenue, Palatine IL 60067 Phone: 847-963-5900 https://ph.ccsd15.net Stuart R. Paddock Elementary 225 W. Washington Street, Palatine IL 60067 Phone: 847-963-5800 https://srp.ccsd15.net

John G. Conyers Learning Academy (ABLE & REACH Programs) 2800 Central Road, Rolling Meadows IL 60008 Phone: 847-963-3400 https://cla.ccsd15.net

Virginia Lake Elementary 925 N. Glenn Drive, Palatine IL 60074 Phone: 847-963-7100 https://vl.ccsd15.net

Central Road Elementary 3800 Central Road, Rolling Meadows IL 60008 Phone: 847-963-5100 https://cr.ccsd15.net

Willow Bend Elementary 4700 Barker Avenue, Rolling Meadows IL 60008 Phone: 847-963-7300 https://wb.ccsd15.net

Frank C. Whiteley Elementary 4335 Haman Avenue, Hoffman Estates IL 60192 Phone: 847-963-7200 https://fcw.ccsd15.net

Winston Campus Elementary 900 E. Palatine Road, Palatine IL 60074 Phone: 847-963-7500 https://wce.ccsd15.net

Gray M. Sanborn Elementary 101 N. Oak Street, Palatine IL 60067 Phone: 847-963-7000 https://gms.ccsd15.net

Carl Sandburg Middle School 2600 Martin Lane, Rolling Meadows IL 60008 Phone: 847-963-7800 https://cs.ccsd15.net

Hunting Ridge Elementary 1105 W. Illinois Avenue, Palatine IL 60067 Phone: 847-963-5300 https://hr.ccsd15.net

Plum Grove Middle School 2600 Plum Grove Road, Rolling Meadows IL 60008 Phone: 847-963-7600 https://pg.ccsd15.net

Jane Addams Elementary 1020 E. Sayles Drive, Palatine IL 60074 Phone: 847-963-5000 https://ja.ccsd15.net

Thomas Jefferson Middle School 3805 Winston Drive, Hoffman Estates IL 60192 Phone: 847-963-5400 https://tj.ccsd15.net

Kimball Hill Elementary 2905 Meadow Drive, Rolling Meadows IL 60008 Phone: 847-963-5200 https://kh.ccsd15.net

Walter R. Sundling Middle School 1100 N. Smith Street, Palatine IL 60067 Phone: 847-963-3700 https://wrs.ccsd15.net

Lake Louise Elementary 500 N. Jonathan Drive, Palatine IL 60074 Phone: 847-963-5600 https://ll.ccsd15.net

Winston Campus Middle School 900 E. Palatine Road, Palatine IL 60074 Phone: 847-963-7400 https://wcms.ccsd15.net

Lincoln Elementary 1021 N. Ridgewood Lane, Palatine IL 60067 Phone: 847-963-5700 https://ls.ccsd15.net

15

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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 Samantha Bray Ader, President

Frank J. Annerino, Vice President James Taylor, Secretary Eric Bachmann Wenda Hunt Zubair Khan Lisa Beth Szczupaj

Superintendent of Schools Laurie Heinz, Ed.D.