District 88 remembers beloved Superintendent, the late Dr. Scott Helton

Pictured is District 88 Superintendent Dr. Jean Barbanente.

It is hard to believe that Dec. 10 marked one year since the passing of our beloved Superintendent, the late Dr. Scott Helton.

It has been a challenging year, filled with obstacles, adversities and trying to understand situations we never imagined we would face. But through it all, one thing remains certain and clear – our desire and passion to continue Scott’s legacy. Scott was larger than life, and it is difficult to summarize his impact. When envisioning the characteristics of an ideal Superintendent, the following attributes come to mind: Someone who will advocate for all students – even when what’s right might not be what’s popular; someone who connects with stakeholders; and someone who champions moving education and student success forward. Scott embodied all of those qualities – and more.

Scott had more than 33 years of experience in education and served in a variety of capacities, including as Principal of Addison Trail for 11 years and as Superintendent of District 88 since 2012. He was incredibly ingrained in the District 88 community and helped build positive futures for countless students through his contributions to public education and coaching football, wrestling and track. He was laser focused on making sure we connected with and cared for each child and family in the district and took the time to build trust and genuine relationships. Scott could always be found at community events, athletic competitions, theatre and music performances and student recognition ceremonies – anywhere where he could celebrate our pupils.

Scott also was relentless in his pursuit to make sure everyone had a voice and a seat at the table and felt welcome and valued. He had an uncanny ability to build bridges and authentic connections with all stakeholders to accomplish our mission of working for the continuous improvement of student achievement. He worked closely with local legislators, village leaders, colleges/universities and business owners to provide academic and workplace opportunities to help students reach their goals through multiple pathways.

Having worked alongside Scott for nearly 20 years, I know he would be extremely proud of how our staff, students, parents/guardians, community members and Board of Education members have come together and continue to support one another. At the heart of every decision I make is Scott’s student-centered mindset, and I am honored and privileged to maintain and build upon his legacy of passionate, caring, courageous leadership and service to District 88 and beyond.

The tremendous mark Scott left on the education community at the local, state and national levels will be felt for years to come and will live on in every student and educator whose life he touched. Scott will forever be missed and will always be remembered.

Thank you for your support of District 88.

* To view events in honor of the late District 88 Superintendent Dr. Scott Helton, go to www.dupage88.net/ScottHelton. This link includes a virtual memorial, a virtual funeral, a candlelight vigil, concerts and a scholarship fund in Dr. Helton’s name.

With District 88 Pride,
Jean Barbanente, Ed.D.
District 88 Superintendent