The five years I have spent serving as the superintendent for Oak Park Elementary School District 97 have been among the most rewarding in my career as an educator. That is why it is with mixed emotions that I announce my decision to accept the role of superintendent for Round Lake Area Schools District 116. My last day in District 97 will be June 30.
While I am excited about the new opportunities on the horizon, I look back upon my tenure here with great affection for the extraordinary people I have worked with, as well as an overwhelming sense of pride for what we have achieved together.
To the staff, I thank you for your hard work. You are the backbone of this district and the catalyst for its success. It was an honor to serve as a member of your team.
To the members of the board of education, I thank you for helping me be a more effective leader by providing the wisdom, guidance and resources necessary to meet the needs of our stakeholders. Each of you exemplifies what it means to be a true public servant.
To the parents and guardians, I thank you for your strong commitment to education. Your support of the schools was among the factors that drew me to the district in 2005, and is one of the reasons why it will be so difficult to leave. I have a great deal of respect and admiration for your tireless dedication to the academic growth and development of your children.
To the district’s community partners, I thank you for your collaborative spirit. Through our combined efforts, we further strengthened Oak Park’s reputation as one of the best places to live in the nation.
Lastly, to the students of District 97, I thank you for providing me with a daily reminder of why I love working in education. Your talent, ambition and enthusiasm for learning were energizing and inspirational. I look forward to hearing about all of your wonderful accomplishments in the years ahead.
It has been my distinct privilege to work on behalf of District 97. I thank you again for the opportunity to serve you, and wish you all the best.
Constance Collins
Oak Park
