Board President Gerald Pauling took the opportunity to thank Shelly Marks for her leadership on the Elementary School District 153 Board for 32 years. She has long been a champion for children in this community and a partner with HF. He also thanked the outgoing Board members for how they have modeled what it means to be a Board member. They step out of self and step into the important responsibility of being a board member for our students and staff.
Superintendent Dr. Scott Wakeley shared that he and his wife marveled at the talent and gifts our students have as they watched the musical Between the Lines on Saturday night. Their performances were like they were on Broadway. It is a gift for this community to be able to share in the students' performances.
Board Vice President Nathan Legardy thanked Steve Anderson, Cynthia Turnquist and Michelle Hoereth and shared how much of a pleasure it has been to serve next to them and to learn from them. It has been a collaborative Board with these three on it. They have been stars and are their roles are big shoes to fill for our incoming Board members.
Board Member Pam Jackson shared how much she enjoyed the Between the Lines show. We have a gem here with the fine arts program. She is looking forward to the Ribbon Cutting for the Science Building on May 6 at 4:30 p.m. The building will be amazing for our students. She also thanked the outgoing Board members. There was a fracture on the board when they joined which has come together with their leadership. It takes the talents of all to make board service successful. She has learned from each of them and looks forward to learning from the incoming board members as well.
Board Member Chris Riedel shared that its been an absolute joy to work with his fellow Board members. This is a highly functional board and the three departing members have been a foundational piece of that strength. We can't be selfish and hog them to ourselves, although he really wants to. He congratulated District 153 Board President Shelly Marks for her commitment to the community and all of the work she has put in. He also remarked that what we have in fine arts is second to none. The community needs to see how special it is.
Board Member Steve Anderson share that his son participated in the Special Olympics Unified program. To see some of the students that his son particated with here tonight is special. The response of their recognition is special too. He again encouraged the community to make a difference with common sense gun enforcement. In the tough days, he leaned heavily on Michelle Hoereth and Shelly Marks as the School Board Presidents trio for the partner districts. He shared that while we don't always agree, we respect each other, and we get a lot of hard work done. To Shelly Marks he shared that she is the reason he has served on the board. He shared she means a lot to our community.
Board Member Cynthia Turnquest said thank you to Shelly Marks for her service. She was one of the first to show her enthusiasm for Cynthia throwing her hat into the board arena. She also shared the divisiveness of the political world is what she faces in her work but when she comes to the Board table this work makes her whole. The work that we do is good. There is nothing that HF is not able to accomplish. She also thanked Pat Gnaster and Suzette Diaz for holding board service together.
Director of Communications Carla Erdey shared that the annual Communications Survey is now live. Students, families, community and staff members are invited to share their thoughts on what, when and how HF communicates. Look for music-themed promotions across genres in the coming days as we seek to have as many participants as possible. The survey results are used to shape the strategic communications plan for HF.
Jalitza Martinez named Assistant Superintendent for Staff Services
Jalitza Martinez has been appointed as the new Assistant Superintendent for Staff Services. With nearly two decades of experience in educational leadership and a specialization in human resources, Martinez brings a wealth of expertise in recruitment, retention, and staff support. As Associate Superintendent of Staff and Student Services at East Aurora District 131, she led initiatives that significantly increased staff retention and recruitment efforts, particularly in high-need areas. Her work has focused on fostering positive employee relations, improving organizational practices and procedures, and assisting in successful negotiations with bargaining units. Martinez’s deep understanding of human resources needs, her commitment to supporting staff, and her experience in developing comprehensive mentoring and induction programs make her an invaluable asset to the district.
“I am excited to join Homewood-Flossmoor District 233 and contribute to a thriving community where staff can grow professionally and be supported in their roles,” said Martinez. “I look forward to building relationships and advancing the district’s mission of excellence.”
Dr. Jennifer Norrell, incoming Superintendent of District 233, shared her enthusiasm for the appointment, saying, “Dr. Martinez brings a strategic and people-centered approach to human resources. Her depth of experience in cultivating strong teams and positive work environments will be instrumental as we strengthen support systems for all staff at HF.”
Martinez is currently completing the Doctorate of Education in Supervision program at Loyola University Chicago, and earned a Master of Arts in Educational Leadership from Aurora University and a Master of Social Work with a concentration in schools from Aurora University. Her academic foundation equips her with the tools to lead effectively, especially in HR and educational leadership.
Dr. Lisa Marie Dallacqua named Director of CTE, Career Pathways & Workforce Development
Dr. Lisa Marie Dallacqua has been appointed as the Director of CTE, Career Pathways & Workforce Development, a role in which she will leverage her strong background in curriculum development and community partnerships. Dallacqua’s extensive experience in both educational leadership and community engagement includes her time as Principal at Western Avenue Elementary School in Flossmoor School District 161, where she helped elevate the school’s status from Commendable to Exemplary. As a strong advocate for career readiness, she is committed to building partnerships with local businesses and organizations to expand opportunities for students. Her expertise in developing dual credit programming and creating robust professional learning experiences will enhance the district’s career pathways initiatives and strengthen connections with the wider community.
“Homewood-Flossmoor High School has a rich tradition of community involvement, and I am thrilled to continue to build partnerships that will benefit both our students and local organizations,” said Dallacqua. “I look forward to fostering opportunities that will prepare our students for success in the workforce.”
Dr. Norrell praised Dallacqua’s appointment, stating, “Dr. Dallacqua is a visionary leader passionate about connecting students to real-world learning experiences. Her ability to blend academic rigor with community collaboration will expand the scope and impact of HF’s career pathways programming.”
Both appointments reflect the district’s ongoing commitment to fostering an environment where students and staff can excel.
“The addition of Jalitza Martinez and Lisa Marie Dallacqua to the already strong district leadership team will drive impactful change in both staff services and career pathways programming,” said Norrell. “I am excited to get to work with the entire leadership team.”
They will begin their new roles on July 1, 2025.
