Dear families:
As we continue into the new year, I am energized by the purpose, pride, and momentum that embody our district. We recently marked Martin Luther King Jr. Day, a moment that reminds us that his work was never about a single speech or moment in time, but about daily action and choosing fairness, courage, service, and humanity in the small decisions that shape a culture. I see those values lived out every day in our classrooms, our buildings, and our community. The way our students care for one another, our staff lift each other up, and our families partner with us shows a joint commitment to dignity, opportunity, and belonging for all.
Our Latest Golden Apple Recipient
That spirit of service was on full display with this week's Golden Apple Award from Channel 8 for Mr. Peter Chupak. As the leader of the IHS automotive program, he truly transforms lives. He doesn’t just teach about engines and equipment; he creates opportunities for meaningful career pathways, builds confidence, and shows students what is possible through hard work and dedication. His focus on safety, hands-on learning, and student leadership makes his classroom a space where students own their growth and take pride in their accomplishments. We are incredibly fortunate to have Mr. Chupak guiding the future of so many young people.
R.I.S.E Capital Improvement Project Update
We are also pleased with the progress of our RISE Capital Improvement Project as it nears completion. The opening of the new Iroquois Middle School library (video) and the soft opening of the Rogers and Southlawn libraries, with their grand opening coming next Tuesday, represent exciting milestones. These spaces were designed to encourage curiosity, collaboration, and innovation. We are deeply grateful to our community for its support and to our Board of Education for its vision in ensuring our facilities match the commitment to excellence we hold for our students. A sincere thank you goes to the Rogers/Southlawn staff, especially our librarians, custodians, teachers, and administrators, for their flexibility and understanding during construction. Thank you for trusting the process!
Alongside these improvements, we continue to make strong progress on district-wide door replacements identified through our 2022 safety and security audit, the Safe and Loved Reports. This work reinforces our foundational obligation to keep students and staff physically safe while also supporting their social and emotional well-being. Safety, in every sense of the word, continues to be our top priority.
Community Engagement
Our partnership with the Helmer Nature Center continues to flourish. The Trees for Trails event was another wonderful sign of what makes this community special. Thank you to everyone who donated holiday trees, which will now support a full year of learning and recreation. Under the leadership of Director Karen Mazzola and her incredible team, HNC provides meaningful educational opportunities and delivers enriching outdoor experiences for students and families alike.
Collective Progress
Instructionally, we remain focused on sharpening our craft. Our educators and leaders are devoted to continuous growth, undertaking thoughtful shifts that center students, deepen engagement, and connect learning to the real world. I am immensely proud of the way our staff embraces reflection, innovation, and the belief that there is always room to grow in service of our students, as they have collectively studied incremental shifts in their teaching practices to spark engagement, learning, and retention. These total participation practices aim to ensure that all students achieve their peak performance.
I also want to recognize our Board of Education for its resolute leadership and advocacy. Beyond their governance, they are preparing to engage in high-level legislative advocacy next month, working alongside regional districts to advance priorities including school funding, mental health supports, universal pre-kindergarten, transportation electrification, and school safety and security. Their work ensures our students and families have a strong voice at every level, from the county, state, and national levels.
Personal Gratitude
I am extremely grateful for the opportunity to serve as your superintendent in a community that leads with purpose and loads of heart. To live, learn, and lead alongside people who so strongly value children, education, and one another represents both a privilege and a responsibility I hold with great pride. Every day, this community reminds me why this work matters and why the future here is so bright.
In partnership,
Aaron R. Johnson, Ed. D
Superintendent of Schools
Find all Superintendent Updates on our website under Superintendent Update.
