District 88 celebrates Staff Appreciation Week

Pictured is District 88 Superintendent Dr. Jean Barbanente.

This past week was a special time in education. From May 6 to 10, we celebrated Staff Appreciation Week, which is a time to reflect on everything our staff members do for each and every student each and every day. To recognize the tremendous work of our staff, our parent groups, booster clubs, student councils and culinary classes provided treats and gifts as a thank you.

We know our success is a result of our partnerships. From a knowledgeable and supportive Board of Education; to involved and engaged parents/guardians, community members and students; to a committed and passionate teaching staff – the relationships we have allow us to achieve our mission and vision.

Our staff members guide students to state and national recognitions in academics, extracurricular activities, fine arts and athletics. Their work is a critical aspect of how/why our graduation rate remains above 90 percent – and how/why our graduates continue to attend colleges and universities throughout the U.S., including Ivy League and other highly competitive institutions. We provide a comprehensive curriculum that includes award-winning fine arts programming, more than 30 Advanced Placement (AP)/college-level courses and more than 50 dual-credit courses in 17 career pathway areas (which saves our families more than $1 million in college tuition each year) – and we’re able to do that because of the enthusiasm and dedication of our staff.

This school year alone, District 88 teachers championed students to earn more than 3,000 college credits, more than 1,000 career certifications, 175 biliteracy credentials and multiple awards in more than 20 state-level extracurricular competitions. Read more about our 2023-24 successes at http://www.dupage88.net/D-88Successes2023-24.

Most importantly, our staff members help ensure students leave Addison Trail and Willowbrook with hope for the future. They assist pupils in forming their dreams, opening doors, removing barriers and overcoming unimaginable challenges. Those efforts change the trajectory of our students’ lives and build positive futures for them and their families. Thank you to our staff for continuing to serve the sacred calling of public education and for supporting the students and families of our amazing learning community.

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