Meet Butler principal Ed Condon
The Daily Herald is featuring an occasional series in the Neighbor section introducing readers to the men and women who sit in the corner offices of schools across DuPage County.
Beyond learning why they entered education, you'll find personal details, such as whether they head to the North or South Side for a baseball game. We hope you enjoy getting to know them as much as we have.
Ed Condon, principal, Butler Junior High School, Oak Brook, Butler Elementary District 53
Age: 38
Family: Wife, son, daughter, goldfish.
Grew up in: Hinsdale.
Your ultimate pet: Chia Pet.
What's your education philosophy in one sentence: "Children first." Though it sounds like a slogan, it really does embody everything about making sound educational decisions: doing what's best for kids.
How did you wind up in education? I had one particularly inspiring teacher in high school who left an extraordinary impression on me.
What is your dream vacation? A warm tropical island. I haven't been anywhere like that yet, but I think there's still time.
If you won the biggest lottery in history you'd … take the afternoon off.
Favorite reality show? "Survivor." Though I haven't seen it in several seasons, it's the first reality TV.
Cubs or Sox? Cubs, without a doubt.
Musical guilty pleasures? Anything on my iPod
Favorite childhood book? "The Royal Road to Romance" by Richard Halliburton. Originally written in the 1920s, it is about a man who travels the world having a variety of adventures. My copy of the book is so well worn that it's the one falling apart on our bookshelves.
Bungee jumping, rappelling or parachuting? No, thank you.
What's the most innovative program you've seen so far at school? The Guided Study program at Butler Junior High is truly unique. While the program has been in place for over 15 years, it remains as progressive and beneficial as when it first started. It is an optional course for all students and all grades that teaches study skills, organizational tips and learning strategies. All types of students enroll in this popular class and it is very beneficial in helping junior high students become better prepared for high school.
What lasting impression do you hope to leave? I hope to encourage others to have inquisitiveness and a love of education.
What's the worst influence on today's youth? Anyone who tries to sell them on the idea that their contributions have less value because they are young.
Thing that makes today's students distinct? Their ability to navigate effortlessly in a digital world.
If I could change one thing about the world it would be … that we would continue to improve the way in which we serve both our children and the elderly in our country.
If you could paint your office any color it would be … it's the same color as when I moved in -- off -white.