Lisle picks new principal for Tate Woods
Wesley Gosselink has held many jobs in education over the past 12 years, but one thing has never changed: her belief that all kids can learn.
They may learn at a different pace, she says, and they may learn different things, but in the end, it's the job of educators to help each child do their personal best.
That message will be at the core of her philosophy when she assumes her duties July 1 as staff development coordinator for Lisle Unit District 202 and principal of Tate Woods Elementary School, which serves students from pre-kindergarten through second grade.
The school board approved her appointment Monday to replace Bill Kruthers, who is retiring June 30 after holding both those posts.
"I want parents in Lisle to know that I am there to serve their children, and my goal is to help their students be the best they can be," Gosselink said Tuesday.
It will be familiar territory for Gosselink, who moved to Lisle a dozen years ago while student teaching in Downers Grove and Joliet.
Since then she's gotten married, had a son and taken on several different jobs -- but never left Lisle.
She's currently principal at Anne M. Jeans Elementary School in Burr Ridge District 180, working with students in pre-kindergarten through fourth grade. She also had stints as an assistant principal in Mount Prospect, a special education administrator in Plainfield and a learning resource teacher in Indian Prairie Unit District 204.
The Arkansas native has a bachelor's degree in special education from Illinois State University, a master's in education from North Central College and an Illinois State Administrative Certification.
Her background, especially as an elementary principal, impressed the District 202 search team, Superintendent J. Peter Lueck said.
"She's very professional, very articulate," Lueck said. "She has a good presence about her."
What really stood out for him, though, was when she talked about the importance of "remembering to think like a teacher."
For her part, Gosselink says she was attracted to District 202, in part, "by the quality of education in Lisle and the ability to make a difference in the community where I live."
Gosselink said she believes in supporting students educationally, socially and emotionally and in creating an environment where youngsters can have fun and "want to come to learn every day."
She said education is a collaborative effort that must include teachers, parents, the community and, of course, students.
"We want to make some memories for them as a school," she said.
FYI
Who: Wesley Gosselink
New job: Principal at Tate Woods Elementary School and staff development coordinator for Lisle Unit District 202
When: Starts July 1
Previous job: Principal at Anne M. Jeans Elementary, a pre-kindergarten through fourth-grade school in Burr Ridge
Education: Degrees from Illinois State University and North Central College
Family: Husband, Garrett; 14-month-old son, Parker John