Referenda Report:  Early Learning  |  Curricular Enrichment & Student Support  |  School Supplies

Teachers and Staff

$34.5 million of the 2022 Referendum has been invested in teachers and staff through hourly and base salary increases. These significant investments allowed MCCSC to attract and retain highly qualified educators in a competitive job market.

Thank you, Teachers and Staff!

Just a few of the many thank you notes shared during Teacher Appreciation Week 2025

Being a teacher in general can be challenging but being a teacher more importantly a friend to a class of teenage special needs children is a whole other level of super woman work.

Heather genuinely cares about each and every student and makes everyone feel special and loved. Doesn't matter if it's in or out of school, she cares about our kiddos as if they were her own.

Mrs. Voss goes above and beyond in everything she does. She is an amazing teacher and even better person. She cares about each of her students and always has a smile on her face.

I'm so happy to see my son come so far since day one being with Mr. Skeel. He has learned a lot of hard lessons and has taught us all his crazy math skills he knows. He's done a great job this year.

I'm so glad my daughter had Mr. Linke as her teacher. She has grown so much confidence in herself. She really enjoys being in his class.

Ms. Jenn has the biggest heart and loves all students. She truly cares about my son and helps him throughout his day. Ms. Jenn has been the best person for my son in school, and he's always happy to see her.

I couldn't thank Dr. Shelton enough for her kindness toward students. My son says "Dr. Shelton is just so nice," so often, and his enthusiasm remains whether learning about sea urchins or cancer. I applaud the work she does.

Thank you for your dedication, energy, and encouragement throughout the year, Mr. Fish. Your enthusiasm makes class fun and exciting. Thank you for all you do!

Ms. Hodson works hard to engage students and make speech fun while teaching necessary skills. My student likes going to speech and working with Ms. Hodson. Thank you for all you do!

Mrs. Grabczak is the best. She makes learning so much fun. 

Mrs. Gootee makes school fun! I like the opportunity to have Free Choice during the day. She does her best to make me feel special.

Mrs. Pearson is a hard worker and will do anything for our school. She's the best assistant principal ever!

I love how Mrs. Piekarsky has something new and exciting for us every day in class.

The preventionists at UES go over and beyond every day! We are so thankful for their flexibility in helping our school run smoothly.

Mrs. Schlegel is always reminding me to try my best. I can tell she is too!

Miss Kasidee is so kind and patient. Our son loves being with her throughout his school day. He really enjoys his aftercare time with Miss Kasidee.

Her talent and passion for music shines through. She creates meaningful experiences for even the youngest learners at Unionville. We love her!

Words cannot express how much my family appreciates the entire Special Education Department at BHSN. They have shown us love, patience, honesty, and guidance. Thank you for making our time at North so meaningful.

Mr. Leonard goes above and beyond for his students. He swiftly answers emails and differentiates assessments to meet my son's needs. Thank you, Mr. Leonard, for your dedication!

Kelley is an amazing assistant principal. She brings joy and passion into everything she does. Thanks for all you do, Kelley.

Mrs. McQuillan goes above and beyond for all her students. She advocates for their needs and cherishes her time with them. They are lucky to have her.

Mrs. Morgan is always available to help students with anything they need!

Mrs. Naran always makes time for her students and places their needs first. We are so lucky to have her working with our children.

Mrs. Jerke is an amazing teacher who always goes above and beyond. She supports students, staff, and families.

Señora Coolidge is an outstanding educator and jovial, kind, caring human being. She supports the diverse needs of each student at Childs. She has a pet axolotl in her classroom!

Mr. M has been so helpful and collaborative all year. He genuinely cares about each student. He does everything he can to make sure they are successful.

Miss Charlene always puts a smile on my face. She is dedicated and an amazing colleague to have. To know her is to love her!

Mrs. Braitling is a teacher who has made such a positive impact in my child's life. She is kind, outgoing, and always has a smile on her face. My daughter has made huge growth this year.

Mrs. Brozell puts so much hard work into her students. She holds them at a high standard. I am proud of her.

Ms. Wray goes above and beyond—always. She's the most hardworking, strong woman I know!

Mr. Linke provides a calm, safe space for students to be themselves. He helps them grow as students and as people. He's one of the best!

Mrs. Venal has been communicative, helpful, and an integral part of why 3rd grade has been so successful. Thank you for a great year.

I want to give a heartfelt shoutout to Ms. Benham. She truly cares about her students and goes above and beyond. She inspires her students every day.

Mrs. White has helped my daughter so much this school year. She's had such a big impact on her. My daughter says, "Mrs. White is someone I want to stay best friends with for my whole life."

Miss Gardner works so hard for my child and all her students. She is one of their biggest supporters and cheerleaders. My child has grown and learned so much!

Mrs. Brattain goes above and beyond. She has made my daughter feel like part of her family. She is extra special.

Chef Cain is an amazing person who leads his students with pride and integrity. He promotes success and helps with problem solving. My son has really grown from the beginning of the year in Chef Cain's Class.

Mrs. Hudelson has been an amazing influence for my son. She is always there and always willing to help. We are very thankful she's in our lives.

Mrs. Kinkead always goes above and beyond for the kids. She pushes them academically to do better every day. My child enjoys going to school.

Mr. Roth and Mrs. Lewis always make sure to be there for the kids. They get to their students' level for understanding and make it fun. We are so lucky to have them at Lakeview. 

Mr. Sparks goes above and beyond! I especially respect his true passionate about being a teacher. As well as communicating and replying to emails/notes. Mr. Sparks you totally deserve this shout out! We will certainly miss you next year!

Mrs. Olivo is an incredible music teacher. She goes above and beyond to encourage a love for music in her students. She does so much for everyone and is so joyful while doing it!

Mrs. Rhodes brings Star teacher to a new level. She has a hand in so many sixth grade events that make our students and school so much better. And she tirelessly teaches and brings humor and wisdom to all parts of secondary education.

Senora Guzman brings an energy that lights a fire under 6th graders and challenges them to use their skills to be the best they can be! And she is wonderful at encouraging the immersion students to speak the Spanish language. Muchas gracias!

Teaching 6th graders is not for the faint of heart, but Senor Calvo does it with great patience along with calm and peaceful instruction, and a fun, positive attitude. We appreciate him so much! Bravo! Muchas Gracias!

The paraeducators of B218 and B212 make the classrooms run. They work hard daily to endure the safety and growth. We appreciate everything you all do! Flowers to each of you.

You'll never find a more caring, thoughtful, and brilliant teacher than Mrs. Melnick! She has the true heart of a teacher! She goes above and beyond to make each student feel seen, valued, and respected.

Mrs. Jeffers is the kindest and most patient teacher around! She has made my son feel confident and comfortable at school just by being herself. She cares deeply for her students and provides so many cool learning opportunities for them!

Mrs. Brass is a kind and thoughtful teacher. She builds positive relationships with her students! Her students know they have her support. Thanks for all you do, Mrs. Brass!

Thank you for being the best teacher, Ms Scott. I love learning with you!

Miss Smith is so kind and dedicated to her students! I am so glad to have her as my child's teacher!!

Ms. Bandy is a great teacher! Beyond helping her students excel in reading and math, she has fostered a love a science in her classroom.

We are forever grateful to Ms. Reynolds, who was the first one to recognize a speech therapy need for my son. Besides that, she brings a wealth of experience to the classroom and the patience of a saint. Her classroom management is impressive!

Mrs. Miller is an amazing teacher! She has helped my son grow so much over this last year. He couldn't have done it without her amazing support. We love you!

Mrs. Blanchard always creates a safe, loving space in her art class. All students and their wide spectrum of artwork carry value in her eyes, sharing a love for the arts for all students!

Mrs. Decker does a fantastic job encouraging a love for reading with her students!

Mrs. Piekarsky has made such an enriching school year for my daughter. Not only has she learned so much, but she has made the best memories in one of her last years in elementary school!

Miss Newland goes out of her way to make every individual student feel special and loved. Both of my kids have had her and we've had nothing short of the best experiences with her. We are so grateful for everything she has done and continues to do!

Kassie is so amazing. She is terrific with the students she works with. She is so amazing, patient, and kind! My son loves working with her so much! She is going to be an amazing teacher!!

I'm so grateful for Mrs. Taylor's dedication and heart. She's made a lasting impact on both of my children's lives in second and fourth grade and continues to shine as an outstanding teacher! Thank you for all that you do!

Ms. Salamon is always so kind. She teaches us how to be kind to one another. I have become a much stronger reader too!

Thank you for always being kind and caring with the students. Ms. Blanchard is great at complimenting students' strengths and helping bring out the best in them as art students. We appreciate you!

My daughter loves Sra Sotomayor. Every day is great with her, but Fun Fridays are the best! Sra Sotomayor even came to my daughter and her classmate's baseball game after school!

We love Mrs. Baughman! Mrs. Baughman is a wonderful teacher & has really helped him grow in his confidence! We love her!

Shoutout to Mrs. Tremblay for being incredibly organized, always on top of things, planning wild and crazy STEM activities—and most importantly, for deeply caring for each of her students, past and present. Your dedication shines every day!

Thank you, Mrs. Moutardier for being a great teacher! You have a special connection to current and past students. Not only does she inspire every day, but she brings her big heart, smiles, and all-around greatness to everything she does!

Missy goes above and beyond to help the students and staff at University! She makes sure every kid feels seen and heard. Her empathy for all of the students creates a safe and welcoming space for everyone.

Ms. Melrose is an exceptional teacher whose patience, kindness, and empathy shine through in everything she does. She consistently goes above and beyond to support her students, always serving as their strongest advocate.

Ms. Young is a very kind person. She is so great at adapting her lessons to meet the needs of all of her kids. She makes every child feel seen and heard.

Mrs. Robertson goes above and beyond for her 1st graders! She has brought many new opportunities to Arlington Heights. We appreciate you so much!!!

Mrs. Kopp models behaviors of patience, empathy, communication, and understanding. She supports her students not only academically but emotionally to help students achieve success, better understand themselves and make well-thought decisions.

Ms Cassidy is such an amazing artist, and I love how she uses those talents to teach and inspire her students with their own art!

Mrs. Zilch is a great teacher! She is always willing to go the extra mile to help students succeed.

Mrs. Ferachi and Mrs. Ricke are wonderful teachers! They go above and beyond everyday to help their students! They truly make a difference!

Ms Lindsey has always treated every one of our kiddos as her own! To me that is huge, it allows them to know that is their safe space!! We love you Ms Lindsey, thank you for everything you do for our kiddos at Clear Creek!

Mr. Van Lue is not only an excellent teacher, but he is caring and builds good relationships with the kids. He wants to see each of them succeed and is very fair.

Dear Ms. Prost, I just wanted to take a moment to express my heartfelt gratitude for all that you do for Najm and his classmates. Your patience, creativity, and dedication make learning such a joyful experience.

Mr. Ritter is always seen in and around the school. He engages with all students and often knows their hobbies and interests. He always wears a smile and student feel safe at his school.

Mr. Greve truly cares about every student he comes into contact with. He goes out of the way to find solutions to difficult situations and doesn't stop pushing for success. Thank you!

Mr. Naldi's dedication to our students is nothing short of inspiring. He shows up every day with patience, energy, and a genuine passion for helping kids grow.

Mrs. Boyd is dedicated to her students and her school. My child thrived in her class this year. We love Mrs. Boyd!

Ms. Dilts makes class interesting for the students and forms a positive relationship with them. She truly loves her job and Batchelor is lucky to have her in as many roles as she fills.

Coach Ferachi is so supportive of all the athletes on the BMS track team. I can only imagine what a great teacher she is because of the heart I see from her on the athletic field.

Ms. Herrera is a fantastic teacher who is so kind and caring with her students. No matter the challenge she faces it head on with grace and does her best to help her students succeed!!

At our parent-teacher conference, I found myself struggling to take in everything Mrs. Schwartzman was saying—not because I wasn't listening, but because I was so deeply moved.

Mrs. Sturgis makes Kindergarten so fun and memorable for kids. Her room is amazing, uplifting, and her energy makes the kids love school and want to learn.

Both my son and I have loved being a part of Mrs. Buckley's 1st grade class. My son has learned so much this year thanks to the many creative ways she engages her class. Thank you, Mrs. Buckley!

A big, heartfelt shout out to Ms. Shelley, an incredible Pre-K teacher who's making a world of difference one little learner at a time!

I appreciate Mrs. Johns because she makes me smile, she helps me learn more everyday. I love being in her math class being her around makes me happy!!

Mrs. Kantor is nice. I appreciate the time and work puts into best buddies. We are the bestest friends ever!!

Ms. Chantelle helps me just keep swimming!

Kara is truly amazing! She ALWAYS has a positive attitude and gives her all to her students every day.

Miss Whitney shows a deep love for her students every day! She knows each child and what they need to feel loved and supported. The pre-K team is so lucky to have her!!

Eric Gilpin has always been the best! He was a principal before and now the secondary of education director! He has always taught us so much and been so kind! He definitely deserves a shoutout!!

Ms. Randal's goes above and beyond to make sure all of her students feel accepted and included. She works on what they need individually and as a whole.

Mrs. Kantor is a good Unified Track Coach. She teaches how to run. She teaches how to shot put. We win trophies!

Ms. Van is a really great painting teacher. She helps me when I am struggling and makes it easier.

These teachers have done an amazing job this year. Everyday my daughter comes home excited to tell me what she has learned and what fun activities they have done in class. They have made her feel loved and taught her so much.

Ms. Murray is my drawing teacher. Thank you for being nice to me! Thank you for teaching me all about coloring.

Mr. Nicholas teaches me how to play drums, saxophone, and piano. He can do anything he wants to in percussion. He is nice. Thank you, Mr. Nicholas.

We want to say THANK YOU for not only the teachers but all of the staff that support our student at Summit.

Mrs Prost has done an AMAZING job! The care she feels for her students is easy to see in her communication and interactions with them and in sharing with the parents.

Mrs. Hawkins pours her heart into every student that she works with.

Andrea is a great mentor and always willing to lend a hand to anyone in the building!

Ms. Black cares so deeply about so many students!

I love when I go to Library specials because of Mr. Strawn! He makes Library so fun and teaches us lots of cool things.

Mrs. Rhodes brings so much energy and FUN to Summit everyday. She teaches real life skills and always encourages and challenges her students to be their best. Her classroom is full of acceptance, love, and joy!!

Mrs. Yoder brings so much passion and enthusiasm into her work. She inspires those around her to be the best versions of themselves. Mrs. Yoder has a special talent for advocating for her students' best interest.

Ms. Klawans has helped me so much. I didn't like math in middle school, or at the beginning of this year, but she has made it interesting. I want to do well in her class because she works so hard for all of us. She is the best math teacher!

Senor Garcia makes every day so fun. I love the different voices he uses when we read stories. He makes me laugh and is kind.

Mrs. Donovan is truly the best of the best at Binford. She works so hard to ensure her students feel loved, cherished, and confident in their abilities. Thanks for all you do Mrs. Donovan!

Mrs. Koontz is a huge help in students success! She loves her kids and does an amazing job at helping kids reach their goals! Thank you for everything you do.

Ms. Pettway makes teaching Science and Social Studies fun for the kids! My daughter loves her and is all the time talking about how much fun she has with Ms. Pettways fun teaching activities!

Mrs. Pedersen is loved by so many kiddos because of her fun and kind personality! She goes above and beyond to make sure kids are working towards their goals! Thank you for everything you do.

Señora Solis brings so much heart to the classroom! Her care, dedication, and ability to make every child feel respected, loved, and at ease means the world. She helps create such a special and supportive environment for our little ones to grow.

Senora Royse makes kindergarten such a warm and welcoming place! Her kindness and engaging spirit help make that big first year of school feel exciting and approachable. We're so grateful for the gentle, joyful foundation you're giving your students.

We're so grateful for Mrs. Miller and the excitement she brings to second grade! Her fun, engaging approach makes every day at school something to look forward to. Our child comes home smiling and full of stories thanks to her amazing energy and creativity.

A big thank you to Senora Sotomayor for making first grade such a fun and exciting place to learn! She brings a fun, collaborative, and creative energy to her classroom, and our child absolutely loves being in her class.

Senor Garcia is such an incredible 2nd grade teacher! He gives constant encouragement, has a genuine connection with the kids, and brings learning to life in a fun and energetic way.

Ms. Melrose has been the teacher my son has needed. My son loves her and has never looked forward to going to school until now. Having her as my son's teacher is like a breath of fresh air. We feel so lucky to have her! Thank you Ms. Melrose!

Mr. Engel is my favorite teacher at North. He is a great teacher, and he cares about his students.

Shoutout to Mr. Garcia! My daughter Giavonna is in 2nd grade in the Spanish immersion program, and Mr. Garcia does an amazing job helping her and her classmates learn a new language at such a young age.