New principals announced for 2016-2017

February 18, 2016

Topic: Updates

On Thursday, February 18, the Board of Education approved the hiring of three administrators to lead Field Elementary School, Whitman Elementary School, and Hawthorne Early Childhood School for the 2016-2017 school year.

The Board of Education named Luis Bonilla, the current assistant principal at Holmes Middle School, to serve as principal at Field Elementary School. Patty Puetz, the current Principal of Hawthorne Early Childhood School, was named Princpial at Whitman Elementary School. The District’s Title I/III Coordinator, Raquel Kim, was named Principal of Hawthorne Early Childhood School.

Luis Bonilla

Luis Bonilla

Luis Bonilla has been the Assistant Principal at Holmes Middle School for five years. Although he began his career in accounting, Luis continued his studies in order to transition to a career in education. Luis taught in Cicero prior to coming to CCSD21 where he taught 7th grade at London Middle School and served as the Learning Coach at Whitman Elementary. Coming from a family of educators, Luis understands the importance of fostering good relationships with students, parents and staff. He is dedicated to students’ academic growth and well-being and looks forward to serving as the next principal at Field.

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Patty Puetz

Patty Puetz has been the CCSD21 Early Childhood Principal at Hawthorne for the past three years. Patty has also had experiences as an elementary Assistant Principal and District ELL Coordinator in River Trails District 26. She first came to CCSD21 in 2005 where she taught 1st-5th grade students at Frost Elementary. Patty is an instructional leader who has successfully implemented the High Scope curriculum at Hawthorne and worked with colleagues to ensure a smooth transition for students leaving Pre-K and entering kindergarten at their home schools. Patty brings the wealth of her experiences in various leadership roles with her to Whitman.

Raquel Kim

Raquel Kim

Raquel Kim has been the Title I/III Coordinator for three years. Before coming to CCSD21, Raquel taught in Hawthorn District 73 in Vernon Hills. As Coordinator, Raquel has helped to improve the educational experiences of many students throughout the district. She has led district-wide professional development, extended day and summer programs, school-wide initiatives including Dual Language, and has engaged parents in continuing educational opportunities. In addition, Raquel has worked closely with Hawthorne administration and staff in the school improvement process and the implementation of the High Scope curriculum. Raquel is a servant leader and dedicated to helping all students succeed.