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Katherine Kelly, principal of Field School in Park Ridge, to become principal of District 57's Lions Park School, replacing retiring Kris Gritzmacher

At its April 6 meeting, the District 57 Board of Education approved the hiring of Katherine (Katie) Kelly as the new principal of Lions Park School, effective Aug. 1. She replaces principal Kris Gritzmacher, who is retiring after 18 years at Lions Park. Kelly currently is principal of Field Elementary School in Park Ridge, which serves kindergarten through fifth grade and is part of Park Ridge Niles District 64. She has been principal of Field since 2015; prior to that, she was assistant principal for six years. She also taught fourth and fifth grade at Roosevelt Elementary School in Park Ridge. She began her career teaching second grade and later fourth grade at Southeast School in Evergreen Park District 124.

Dr. Elaine Aumiller, superintendent, says Kelly is the perfect candidate to take the reins at Lions Park, where Gritzmacher has been "a strong leader who has made a positive difference for students, staff and families." Aumiller says Kelly also cares deeply about students and works hard to ensure their diverse needs are met. "The interview team of parents, staff and administrators thought highly of Katie. She's a well-rounded educator who has been a leader on many school and district educational initiatives, plus she has classroom experience in all of the grades that Lions Park serves."

Kelly says she loves working with elementary school children because they are naturally curious and so excited about learning. "They eagerly soak up all of the new experiences they're provided," she says. "And as elementary educators, we have the opportunity to shape how they will feel about school going forward."

In addition to her school experience in the United States, Kelly has traveled extensively throughout Europe, Australia, Asia and North America. In Ireland, she worked with at-risk students in disadvantaged elementary schools, helping them develop positive learning behaviors while providing literacy and math support. She also developed and implemented a high school preparation program for the schools.

Kelly, who lives in Mount Prospect and has two young children, one of whom will start kindergarten at Westbrook next school year, says she looks forward to joining the District 57 community, where people take such pride in their schools. "So many people I meet tell me they moved here for the schools. The parents are really committed to their kids' education," she says. "I also notice that kids, both current and former students, speak so highly of their schools and their love for their teachers."

Aumiller says Kelly will be a great fit on the District's strong team of principals and that she is confident there will be a smooth transition. Kelly says she looks forward to getting started and meeting the staff in the coming months. "I have met some staff and administrators and have found everyone to be very warm and welcoming," she says. "I can't wait to get to know the families as well."

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