Meet the Principal: Madelyn Di Rienzo-Devers
Meet the Principal is an occasional series by Catherine Edman 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.
Madelyn Di Rienzo-Devers, principal, Mohawk School, Bensenville, Bensenville Elementary District 2
Age: Old enough to understand what I'm doing and young enough to keep doing it!
Family: I have a wonderful husband and large extended family.
Grew up in: The Lilac Town - Lombard
Your education philosophy in one sentence: Always make decisions that are based on the students' best interest.
Personal hero: My father.
How did you wind up in education? Since first grade, I had always wanted to be a teacher. I continue to strive to make a positive difference in the lives of children.
What is your dream vacation? Caribbean island-hopping.
If you won the biggest lottery in history you'd … build my dream school and find people in genuine need and provide for them (anonymously).
Favorite reality show? I do not watch reality shows. In fact, I have very little time to watch television.
Cubs or Sox? I support all Chicago sports teams! My favorite team, for better or worse, is the Chicago Bulls!
If you could invite one literary character to dinner, who would you pick and why? My favorite childhood book is "Charlotte's Web." I also was a huge fan of Dr. Seuss.
Bungee jumping, rappelling or parachuting? The most daring thing I've done is to para-sail. Bungee jumping, rappelling and parachuting are out of the question!!
What lasting impression do you hope to leave? The desire to continue to learn and to value each individual's contributions.
What's the worst influence on today's youth? Unsupervised media (technology: Internet, TV, movies, video games).
Thing that makes today's students distinct? Today's students are wonderful! They are bright, creative, open and unbiased.
If I could change one thing about the world … it would be the elimination of all war, suffering, poverty and pain.
If you could paint your office any color it would be … my office has been painted with my choice of calming colors (taupe and cream).