WELCOME
Hello, District 21!
I am proud to share our 2024-2025 Year in Review. This past year, District 21 continued to support the academic, social, and emotional growth of every student launching new learning spaces, expanding health services, and strengthening multilingual education, fine arts, athletics, and inclusive extracurriculars
Our progress is driven by our community: dedicated staff, passionate students, supportive families, and generous partners Together, we’ve advanced innovation, equity, and excellence across the district
This Year in Review highlights just a few ways we’ve grown and thrived. Thank you for your partnership in shaping a bright future for all our learners.
With appreciation,
Dr. Michael Connolly Superintendent
Dear District 21 community,
On behalf of the Board of Education, I’m proud to present this year’s Year in Review, highlighting the remarkable achievements and progress across our schools over the past year.
This year has been a celebration of our educators’ dedication, our students’ resilience and growth, and the continued support of families and community partners Together, we’ve strengthened academic outcomes, expanded access to essential resources, and created new opportunities for connection and engagement
Looking ahead, the Board remains committed to ensuring every student thrives in a safe, inclusive and innovative learning environment Thank you for being an essential part of this journey.
With gratitude,
Jessica Riddick President, Board of Education
BOARD OF EDUCATION
MEMBERS
Front row, left to right: Bill Harrison, Dagmara Kalinowski (secretary), Dr. Michael Connolly (superintendent)
Back row, left to right: Carrie Devitt, Arlen S. Gould, Jessica Riddick (president), Debbi McAtee (vice president), Iliana Guzman
GOVERNANCE
The Board of Education provides critical leadership and oversight to ensure our schools remain focused on student success. The Board establishes policies, approves budgets, and sets strategic priorities that guide the district’s work.
MEETINGS
The Community Consolidated School District 21 Board of Education typically holds monthly meetings of the entire board on the third Thursday of the month at 7 p.m. at the District 21 Community Service Center and Administrative Office, 959 W. Dundee Road, Wheeling, IL. Scan the QR code for meeting agendas and related documents!
Board names second cohort of student representatives to elevate student voice
In our ongoing commitment to amplify student voice and perspective in decisionmaking, we proudly welcomed our second cohort of student board members during the 2024-2025 school year Three outstanding eighth-grade students from each of our middle schools were selected to serve as representatives on the Board of Education, offering valuable insight into the student experience and contributing meaningfully to conversations on policy, programs and school culture
Now in its second year, this initiative has become a powerful platform for student leadership, civic engagement and collaboration Our student board members participated in monthly meetings and shared updates from their schools, with their presence not only enriching the board’s understanding of daily life in our schools, but also empowering their peers and reminding us all of the importance of including those most affected by our decisions in the conversation.
We thank Santiago, Karla and Aiden for their enthusiasm, courage and dedication. Their service helped strengthen the bridge between student experience and district leadership, and we look forward to watching their continued growth as leaders
A year of leadership and transition...
This year marked a significant chapter for our Board, as we honored and bid a heartfelt farewell to two long-serving members whose dedication and leadership have helped shape the direction of our district for many years.
The service of Phil Pritzker and Staci Allan reflected a deep commitment to our students, staff and community, ensuring thoughtful stewardship, policy guidance, and a focus on equity and excellence in education. As trusted voices at the table, they played a critical role in navigating complex challenges, celebrating student and staff achievements, and advancing opportunities that will impact generations to come
We are grateful for their unwavering service and the legacy they leave behind
From top to bottom: Santiago C. of Cooper, Karla P-F. of Holmes and Aiden D of London
DISTRICT SNAPSHOT: STUDENTS AND STAFF
With 6,156 students, our district reflects the rich diversity of the communities we serve Students bring unique perspectives, talents, and strengths that enrich our classrooms and drive our mission of equity, opportunity, and excellence At the heart of this learning community is our dedicated staff — teachers, support professionals, and administrators who create safe, inclusive, and inspiring environments Their commitment extends beyond the classroom, fostering connections, supporting families, and modeling lifelong learning. Together, students and staff shape a vibrant, collaborative district achievement, and potential flourish.
OF THE DISTRICT’S 6,156 STUDENTS...
DISTRICT SNAPSHOT: SCHOOLS
ILLINOIS STATE REPORT CARD
Twelve schools received “Commendable” ratings on the 2024 Illinois State Repaort Card, released Oct. 30 by the Illinois State Board of Education. All nine elementary and three middle schools earned the second-highest designation; Hawthorne, the early childhood center, was not rated.
“These results reflect the dedication of our students, staff, and families,” said Superintendent Dr. Michael Connolly. “They reinforce our mission to provide a high-quality education for every student.”
The report card evaluates schools on academic growth, attendance, school climate, and more. Chief Academic Officer Dr. Beatrice Reyes Childress added, “This success highlights our commitment to excellence and continuous growth.”
LIFE SAFETY INSPECTIONS
Nine schools received perfect scores on their annual Life Safety inspections by the North Cook Regional Office of Education—up from five schools in 20232024 and none in 2022–2023
The honored schools include Hawthorne Early Childhood Center, London Middle School, and Field, Frost, Kilmer, Poe, Riley, Tarkington, and Twain Elementary Schools
DISTRICT 21 HEALTH CENTER
This past school year marked the one-year anniversary of the District 21 Health Center, a groundbreaking school-based health facility launched in partnership with Advocate Children’s Hospital Since opening its doors inside the district’s Community Service Center and Administrative Office, the 3,000-square-foot center has provided students and staff across the district with comprehensive primary and preventive care, including physical, mental and educational health services
As one of only a handful of school-based health centers in Illinois, it represents District 21’s commitment to student success by meeting health needs right in the school community Over the past year, the center has been called a “lifeline” for students, helping them access care quickly and return to class ready to learn.
Take a tour...
EDUCATIONAL SERVICES
ATTENDANCE MATTERS!
District 21 launched Attendance Matters, a districtwide initiative aimed at increasing daily school attendance and supporting students and families in developing strong attendance habits.
“Every minute of instruction counts,” said Superintendent Dr. Michael Connolly. “Showing up matters; not just for today, but for a student’s future.”
The initiative includes incentives for students and classrooms, monthly recognitions, targeted support for chronically absent students, family engagement nights, daily attendance monitoring, and partnerships with community organizations to remove barriers like transportation or mental health needs.
“Attendance is a team effort,” said Dr. Alyssa Shapiro, director of multi-tiered systems of support. “When students are present, they’re positioned for success.”
Our Educational Services team provides the foundation that ensures every student has access to a highquality, well-rounded education From curriculum development and instructional support to special education, multilingual learning, and enrichment opportunities, these services are designed to meet the diverse needs of our students This year, the team continued to expand resources, strengthen professional development for staff, and enhance programs that support both academic growth and social-emotional wellbeing Their work reflects our district’s commitment to equity, innovation, and preparing all students for success
EDUCATIONAL SERVICES
Fueling STEM innovation across all schools with PLTW
Over the past three years, Community Consolidated School District 21 has secured 12 Project Lead the Way (PLTW) grants, one for each elementary and middle school, representing a significant investment in hands-on, real-world STEM learning for all students Middle schools received $10,000 grants in August 2022, while elementary schools have been phased in, beginning with Field, Kilmer and Frost in the 2024–2025 school year, with remaining schools to follow over the next two years
District leaders pursued the grants to expand engaging, project-based learning through the PLTW Launch and Gateway curricula These experiences strengthen science and social studies instruction by encouraging collaboration, creativity and problemsolving, as students design solutions to authentic challenges such as engineering structures, coding games and exploring environmental issues
The grants have also extended learning beyond the school day At Frost, the new Game Coders Club helped students build confidence through hands-on coding, while Kilmer’s Structures and Functions Club introduced young learners to engineering concepts in a creative, collaborative setting. Families responded enthusiastically, with many noting increased student excitement and engagement in school-related activities
COMMUNICATIONS & COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
Clear, consistent communication and strong community partnerships are essential to our district’s success This year, our Communications & Community Engagement team worked to keep families, staff, and community members informed and connected through timely updates, storytelling, and new digital tools From celebrating student and staff achievements to coordinating districtwide events, the team helps build trust, transparency, and pride across our schools By fostering two-way communication and deepening community relationships, we strengthen the support systems that help every student thrive
NATIONAL RECOGNITION
The Communications Department earned four national awards from the National School Public Relations Association, recognizing outstanding work in video and newsletter production.
The district received two Awards of Excellence for its “Getting to Know You” and “2023-2024 Retirees” video series, an Award of Merit for its digital newsletter The 21 Ledger, and an Honorable Mention for its internal Staff Spotlight newsletter.
Read more!
A FRESHER LOOK
This year, we introduced a full redesign of our family and staff newsletters, making them more visual, mobile-friendly, and easier to navigate With streamlined content, engaging headlines, and clear calls to action, the new format helps readers quickly find what matters most to them.
The results have been clear: since launching the updated newsletters, we’ve seen a notable increase in open rates, clickthroughs, and overall engagement from both families and staff.
COMMUNICATIONS & COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
Deepening community connections...
Throughout the past year, CCSD21 has continued to prioritize meaningful engagement with our families, community partners, and local organizations From hosting school-based events like literacy nights, cultural celebrations, and student showcases to participating in larger community gatherings, we’ve embraced every opportunity to connect beyond the classroom
Some of the organizations we’ve partnered with this year include:
Buffalo Grove Rotary
Wheeling Chamber of Commerce
Wheeling Park District
Villages of Arlington Heights, Buffalo Grove and Wheeling
District leaders, board members, and staff have also been present at local festivals, library events, and neighborhood meetings building relationships, listening to feedback, and strengthening trust across our community We’ve expanded volunteer and partnership opportunities, and made space for conversations through surveys and groups
These efforts reflect our belief tha thrive when they are truly part of the the community As we look ahead, excited to build on this momentum— even more ways for families and members to engage, support, and our students
TECHNOLOGY SERVICES
Starting in 2024 and completed in 2025, our Technology Services team replaced the district’s aging clock and intercom platforms with a state-ofthe-art alert system in every classroom. This new interactive platform supports custom visual and audio messaging and aligns with the district’s safety and security initiatives.
New district private fiber network built between schools
Our private fiber project, funded by federal and state grants, was completed in 2025 This new high-speed and redundant fiber-optic “ring” built between all schools promises a future-proof and independent network that we can rely on for decades.
IN THE PIPELINE: After a pilot program in the 24/25 school year, Technology Services overhauled staff technology fleets, ensuring teachers could make the most of their time and efforts. Teacher laptops were replaced with high-performance efficient Chromebook Plus devices, and independent computers were installed behind every classroom smartboard to enhance interactive learning These two major enhancements were accomplished at a lower cost than the previous laptop fleet alone
TIPS & TRICKS
Did you know that, in addition to keeping our schools running and learning connected, our Tech team creates tons of helpful digital content? Scan below to head to their YouTube channel!
FACILITY UPGRADES
The district made major strides in upgrading its facilities over the course of the year, thanks to the support of the 2018 referendum and extensive planning by the district’s Business Services and Operations departments These efforts allowed the district to carry out significant improvements across all 13 schools, enhancing safety, infrastructure, and learning environments for students and staff
During the winter break, construction crews completed a variety of upgrades while buildings were closed, setting the stage for even more extensive work in the summer Every school in the district underwent construction as part of the broader, long-term facilities plan.
Projects completed over the summer included the installation of finishing kitchens, modern classroom furniture, renovated libraries and media centers, upgraded lighting, new intercom and clock systems, expanded STEM spaces, and improved playgrounds and outdoor infrastructure. These improvements reflected the district’s commitment to creating safe, functional, and innovative spaces that support 21st-century learning.
Through careful planning and strong community support, District 21 successfully delivered another year of impactful facility upgrades aimed at improving the educational experience for all learners.
FACILITY UPGRADES
ABOVE: Several schools, including Longfellow (pictured), received new STEM rooms and appropriate furniture for the space.
ABOVE: New flooring in several schools was slated as Summer 2025 construction.
RIGHT: Kilmer received a new playground during the 2024-2025 school year, one of three schools slated for a new structure.
ABOVE: Work is underway to completely transform Poe’s library and media center.
BELOW: Cooper received a new floor in its main gymnasium over winter break.
FINANCIAL STEWARDSHIP
At the heart of our district’s success is a strong commitment to financial stewardship, ensuring that every dollar is managed responsibly to support our students and community Through careful planning, transparent budgeting, and prudent resource allocation, we have maintained a solid financial position that allows us to invest in educational excellence while preparing for future challenges.
Despite evolving economic conditions, our district remains in good financial shape, with balanced budgets and a healthy reserve that provide stability and flexibility. These efforts enable us to sustain quality programs, maintain safe and modern facilities, and attract and retain outstanding staff all critical components of our ongoing mission.
“Our focus is on long-term financial health that supports student success,” said Michael Zagar, director of finance and CSBO “By maintaining disciplined fiscal practices and planning strategically, we ensure that District 21 remains a strong, resilient community where every investment is made with our students’ futures in mind"
SCHOOL SAFETY & SECURITY
A new way to check in
We launched a pilot program to modernize how guests check in at our schools. A visitor management kiosk at London and Riley allowed us the chance to evaluate multiple systems, gather staff and visitor feedback, and make an informed decision on a potential district-wide rollout.
By shifting from traditional manua check-in, where IDs are scanned or details are entered by office staff, to an automated, self-service kiosk model we aim to enhance both efficiency and safety. These kiosks offer streamlined visitor sign-in, potential ID verification badge printing, and real-time notifications for hosts creating a secure and welcoming first impression.
As we begin the 2025-2026 schoo year, we will roll out these kiosks district-wide to modernize and strengthen school safety.
Ensuring the safety of our students and staff is our top priority This year, our schools continue to implement the Standard Response Protocols (SRP) through CrisisGo With real-time alerts, checklists, and easy-to-follow protocols, CrisisGo helps staff respond quickly and effectively to a variety of situations, from weather-related events to security incidents. By integrating technology with well-practiced safety procedures, we create a secure environment where students can focus on learning with confidence.
SCHOOL RESOURCE OFFICER MESSAGES
Our School Resource Officers (SROs) support safe and welcoming schools by sharing monthly safety tips with families through the district newsletter This year, their work was enhanced by visits from Buddy, the Wheeling Police Department’s comfort dog, who helped build positive connections and support student well-being across our schools
STUDENT & STAFF SUCCESS
Seven staff recognized by ISBE’s Those Who Excel program
Seven outstanding staff members were honored by the Illinois State Board of Education as 2025 recipients in the Those Who Excel & Teacher of the Year program, which recognizes exceptional contributions to education across the state
This year’s honorees included:
Amy McCall (London) – Award of Special Recognition
Amanda Ha & Anthony Mead (Hawthorne) – Award of Meritorious Service
Taylor Park (Twain) – Award of Special Recognition
Luci Donnan (Director of Special Education) – Award of Special Recognition
Emily Bochenek (Frost) – Award of Excellence
Mallory Rossi (Riley & London) – Award of Special Recognition
These staff members were praised for their deep commitment to student growth, equity, innovation, and leadership across a variety of roles from special education and literacy to music and physical therapy Their work reflects the heart of CCSD21’s mission: empowering every learner, every day
Cooper seventh grader wins District 21 Spelling Bee
After an exciting 24-round battle, seventh grader Ethan T from Cooper emerged as the winner of this year’s District 21 Spelling Bee, held on February 5 Fourth grader Aadvik K from Tarkington finished as runner-up, and stepped in to represent the district at the North Cook Scripps Bee when Ethan was unable to attend due to a prior commitment
Aadvik delivered an outstanding performance at the regional competition, finishing fourth overall…just one spot shy of advancing to the next round. We’re incredibly proud of his hard work, focus, and poise under pressure. Way to go, Aadvik!
McCall Ha
Mead Park
Donnan Bochenek
Rossi
From left: Abigale L., a sixth grader from London and third place; Aadvik K., a fourth grader from Tarkington and second place; and Ethan T., a seventh grader at Cooper and first place
STUDENT & STAFF SUCCESS
DISTRICT 21 VOLLEYBALL DOMINATE
Fifth grader honored for outstanding community service
Maya S., a fifth grader at Tarkington, was awarded the 2025 George Hieber Citizenship Award by the Village of Wheeling—becoming the youngest recipient in the award’s history
It was a standout season for District 21 volleyball, with multiple teams bringing home top honors in the Mid-Suburban Middle School Athletic Conference (MSMSAC)!
Cooper’s eighth-grade girls team made history by winning the MSMSAC Championship for the second year in a row, then following it up with a victory at the season-ending tournament, completing a dominant season.
London also had plenty to celebrate. The seventh-grade girls team captured the MSMSAC Championship title, while the seventh-grade boys team took first place at the end-of-season tournament, showing incredible teamwork, determination and school spirit.
With two championship titles and a tournament sweep, District 21’s volleyball program is truly on a roll!
Since the age of five, Maya has launched an annual kindness project tied to her birthday, benefiting those in need across the community Her efforts have included school supply drives, snack and birthday boxes, hospital donations, and even building and maintaining a free food pantry outside the Indian Trails Public Library
“I just love the feeling of knowing I’ve helped someone,” Maya said. Her passion for service is inspired by her parents and supported by the Tarkington school community, where she’s an active member of Helping Paws and a constant volunteer Maya hopes to continue her work into middle school and beyond, encouraging others to start small and make a big impact
STUDENT & STAFF SUCCESS
Holmes art teacher’s work now on display at district office
Holmes art teacher Steve Hamann is being honored in a special way: his original painting is now permanently displayed in the district’s administrative office waiting area.
The four-by-six-foot piece, which took over 575 hours to complete, captures the spirit of growth, learning, and community in D21. Hamann began the project in July 2024 after his concept was selected, working nights and weekends to bring the vision to life.
Unveiled at the March 20 Board of Education meeting, the artwork serves as a colorful, inspiring welcome for all who enter.
“I hope people pause, smile, and feel the impact of what we do here,” Hamann said.
Julia C., a fourth grader at Field Elementary, performed with the Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra on April 30 after winning the 2025 Bach Double Violin Competition. Having started violin at six, she quickly gained national recognition, held concertmaster roles, and performed with the Music Institute of Chicago’s Virtuoso Strings Despite her achievements, Julia stays grounded, playing in her school’s beginner orchestra, and hopes to one day become a professional violinist
SUPERSTATE
For the third time in four years, Cooper’s Symphonic Winds earned a coveted spot at the Illinois SuperState Concert Band Festival, held May 9 at the University of Illinois. As one of only seven middle school bands invited statewide, this honor highlights the group’s exceptional talent and dedication.
Led by co-directors Cindy Severino and Anthony Valenti, the band submitted three recorded pieces as part of the rigorous application process The experience not only showcased their musical skill but also taught students the discipline and precision required for professional-level performance
This year’s selection marked a meaningful milestone for Severino, who retired at the end of the 2024-2025 school year “It’s a great way to end my career,” she said. “The kids really rose to the challenge”
STUDENT & STAFF SUCCESS
London students featured in National Nordic art gallery
Three seventh graders from London had their artwork selected for the Ar(c)t(ic) Design virtual gallery at the National Nordic Museum in Seattle The gallery showcased studentcreated art promoting awareness of High Arctic conservation Aurora, Francesca and Priscila began their pieces as sixth graders during the 2023-2024 school year after science teacher Tracy Crowley, a National Geographic Grosvenor Teacher Fellow, introduced the contest. Their submissions a painting, sculpture, and mixed media focused on the impact of climate change on Arctic ecosystems.
Chosen from nearly 100 entries, their artwork was among the top 40% selected for the gallery The achievement reflects their creativity, dedication, and passion for environmental advocacy
Di t i t id Ch l F tival returns in harmony
FUND FOR TEACHE
Tracy Crowley, sixth-grade teacher at London Middle School April named a 2025 Fund for T Fellow. Selected for the pre national grant, Crowly received $5 design a unique professional l experience, which took her to Bo Zimbabwe and Zambia.
the first time in a decade, voices from ss CCSD21 came together for one erful night of music at the district-wide al Festival, held February 26 at Buffalo e High School From 2015 to 2020, the val spanned three nights – one for feeder area – but this year marked its rn as a unified, district-wide event.
More than 435 students in grades 5-8 performed a seven-song lineup, joined by Buffalo Grove High School’s a cappella groups. Organized by district music staff and led by guest conductor Jeremy Bartunek, the event celebrated student talent, collaboration, and musical diversity.
“This was more than a concert; it was a celebration of community and growth,” said music teacher Emily Bochenek
Through hands-on exploration of ecosystems such as the Okavango Delta and conservation efforts like Zimbabwe’s Painted Dog Conservation, Crowley studied the connections between human and natural systems. Her experiences will enrich science instruction across our sixth grade teams at London, Holmes, and Cooper, and inspire students to view themselves as global citizens and stewards of the environment.
“I want our students to see the value of curiosity and meaningful risktaking,” Crowley shared “This journey models what it means to be a lifelong learner”
From left: Francesca, Priscila and Aurora
AFF SUCCESS
erintendent Student Advisory Council
ear, a select group of sixth- through eighth-grade from Cooper, Holmes and London had the opportunity to serve on the Superintendent Advisory Council. Meeting three times annually superintendent, these students were invited to eir perspectives, discuss school experiences, and n meaningful dialogue around key issues their education.
THANKS A MILLION
With the simple act of collecting pop tabs, the district’s students and staff made a huge difference: earning a spot in Ronald McDonald House Charities’ Thanks a Million Club for donating over 1 million tabs (about 798 pounds)
Led by Kilmer teacher Patricia Zelasko, the project began eight years ago and expanded district-wide during the pandemic With help from families, community members, and clubs like Kilmer’s Make a Difference Club and Riley’s SPIN Club, the initiative grew into a powerful show of community service
The district is now proudly featured on RMHC’s recognition wall and has already set its next goal: 1,000 pounds!
ouncil fosters leadership, encourages civic ent, and empowers students to play an active haping their school communities. Topics range ool culture and inclusivity to academic supports ent well-being, with each meeting serving as a for honest conversation and collaborative solving
Cooper eighth grader selected for ILMEA inaugural state choir
For Cooper Middle School eighth grader Claire C known as “C.C.” music runs in the family. With opera singers for parents and actors for grandparents, she’s been singing since age 3 and learning vocal techniques at home.
That lifelong passion paid off when Claire was selected for the first-ever Illinois Music Education Association Junior High All-State Chorus, held in Peoria from Jan 31 to Feb 1, 2025 She was one of 150 students chosen from more than 10,000 who auditioned statewide
“I was so surprised I felt like I was going to cry,” she said
From left: Claire C. and Jennifer Stash
Cooper choir director Jennifer Stash, whose own child was also selected, called it a proud moment as both a teacher and a parent
“I hope this new opportunity helps grow music programs across District 21,” she said
STUDENT & STAFF SUCCESS
In December 2024, Aiden D , an eighth grader at London Middle School, earned a silver medal in the Team Male Cadet division at the World Poomsae Championships an elite event featuring 1,727 athletes from 79 countries Representing Team USA, Aiden helped secure the team’s second-place overall finish.
Aiden began training in taekwondo at age 5 and followed a rigorous daily schedule to achieve his dream, often battling injuries and stress along the way. Despite the challenges, he stayed focused, crediting his success to dedication, time management, and support from his family.
“Hard work doesn’t always pay off right away,” he said. “But with dedication and sacrifice, it does eventually.”
More highlights from the year
RECOGNIZING DISTINCTION
The Board of Education annually acknowledges the hard work and efforts of educational support personnel for demonstrating and advancing the district’s values and the characteristics of a professional learning community
2024-2025 Honorees
Janet Acosta
Building Secretary Frost
Ingrid Ruiz Bautista
Building Secretary London
Marcia Delgado
Teaching Assistant Cooper
Cynthia Kile Administrative Assistant District Office
Patricia Pisman
Teaching Assistant Tarkington
Annabel Salgado Human Resources Specialist District Office
Mikayla Wassell
Teaching Assistant Cooper
Scan here to see a list of previous recipients
Licensed staff members are honored with Celebrating Excellence for demonstrating and advancing District 21 values of a professional learning community, including embracing the district’s mission and vision
Jeff Schechter Eighth Grade Teacher Cooper
Jill McKenna Math Interventionist Field
Laurie Clancy Literacy Interventionist Field
Laurie Mason Spanish Literacy Interventionist Field
Michelle Kuta Art Teacher Frost
Grecia Martinez Blended Classroom Teacher Hawthorne
2024-2025 Honorees
Jaclyn Share Language Services Teacher Facilitator Holmes
Beth Gier STEM Teacher Kilmer
Helene May Literacy Equity Coach London
Bari Bagby Fourth Grade Teacher Longfellow
Elizabeth Cowan Fourth Grade Teacher Longfellow
Amy Mullen Fourth Grade Teacher Longfellow
Natalia Yaguana Social Worker Poe
Megan Fleming Structured Teaching Program Teacher Poe
Maggie Will Psychologist Poe
Carolyn Cerney Social Worker Poe
Sandy Mills Second Grade Teacher Riley
Rebecca Zach Kindergarten Teacher Tarkington
Alice Valencia First Grade Bilingual Spanish Teacher Twain
Ivelisse Jimenez First Grade Dual Language Teacher Whitman
Scan here to see a list of previous recipients
LOOKING AHEAD...
As we continue to build on the progress of the past year, we’re excited to share what’s on the horizon for CCSD21. As we look ahead, we remain committed to growth, innovation and excllence, ensuring our schools remain places where every learner can thrive.
EMPOWERING MATH WITH DESMOS
Beginning with the 2025-2026 school year, we’re launching a new math curriculum powered by Desmos. This innovative, student-centered program encourages critical thinking, collaboration, and real-world problem-solving—making math more engaging and accessible for every learner. Teachers are already diving into training and resources to ensure a smooth and successful rollout
INVESTING IN OUR SCHOOLS
Facility upgrades and modernization efforts will continue across the district
This includes both ongoing renovation projects and new work on the horizon
One major initiative under exploration is a potential redesign of London. We’re reimagining learning environments to better serve today’s students creating more flexible, inclusive, and future-ready spaces that match the high-quality instruction happening inside them.
A NEW STRATEGIC PLAN TO GUIDE OUR FUTURE
Following an extensive development process and approval by the Board of Education, CCSD21 is proud to launch our new strategic plan Beginning in the 2025-2026 school year, this plan will guide our work with a clear focus on academic excellence, equity, and whole-child development Grounded in community input and aligned with our district values, the plan outlines key priorities and measurable goals to drive continuous improvement. Implementation is underway, and we’re excited to bring this vision to life...together.
Read more about the new Strategic Plan
We believe communication is key to building strong partnerships with our families and community. Stay connected with us to receive the latest updates, celebrate student successes, and learn about opportunities to engage with our schools. Whether through our website, newsletters, or social media channels, we invite you to be part of the conversation and the journey. Together, we’re building a stronger future for every student
MISSION AND VISION
www.ccsd21.org
(847) 537-8270
district21@ccsd21.org
Community Consolidated School District 21
@ccsd21
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Community Consolidated School District 21 is committed to providing a learning environment where all students become lifelong learners and productive citizens. Our mission is to ensure engaging, innovative, equitable and safe learning experiences for every student, every day. Our vision, meanwhile, is to empower every student, every day, in every school. These guiding principles reflect our dedication to fostering an inclusive and dynamic educational environment for our diverse student body.
