An Interview with the Crow Island Principal

LUKE LIVINGSTON ON STUDENT SUCCESS, THE PROGRESSIVE MODEL & FUTURE PLANS

every kid is walking into a classroom or an experience where it’s predictable; there’s a routine. They know who the adults are, and they feel a sense of connection. We do that to prevent things like a student not feeling like they belong or not feeling a sense of safety or security. We also have a check-in Connect system where staff are aligned with specific students who need a “hello, how’s your day going,” or like those touch points. It’s not just falling on the homeroom teacher, but it’s a community approach to ensure the kids feel like they have a place here. Describe success for an outgoing 4th grader: We want all of our kids reading and doing math at a certain level of proficiency. Those are critical. But for me, it’s also crucial that our 4th graders have empathy and put themselves in someone else’s shoes. That’s critical when you’re reading, collaborating, and problemsolving. It’s vital for just being a good human being. It’s something our 4th graders do really well, and our teachers really develop in our students.

What are your thoughts on the school rating sites? I think there’s some value but if you want to see what makes Winnetka schools unique, you have to visit and talk to people. Contacting the principal or the enrollment office at the district is a good first step. Anything else you’d like to add? School goes beyond just the physical walls of the building: it’s the families, the staff, and the students here that make this place. We are a school filled with tradition. When I meet students or alums visit, the stories they hold on to just make it so special. Crow Island aligns with the District 36 Mission and Vision. Those are things that are super important.