Downers Grove Dist. 58 presents Distinguished Service Awards

The Education Foundation of Downers Grove Elementary District 58 recently presented Distinguished Service Awards to honor employees who exceed expectations and serve as inspirations.

This year's celebration featured a record-breaking 44 employees.

"Each of their contributions has made a lasting impact on District 58, and more importantly, on the children we serve," said Marc Hausmann, the event master of ceremonies and a former foundation director.

The ceremony recognized employees who were nominated by a parent, student or colleague and gave each nominator the opportunity to share a few words about what makes their nominee special.

The 2019 Distinguished Service Award winner in the staff category is Todd McDaniel, principal of Henry Puffer School. McDaniel received nominations from several employees who shared anecdotes demonstrating how he exemplifies distinguished service.

For example, teacher Andrew Kupisch shared an experience from his second year of teaching. On one Saturday, he felt overwhelmed and questioned his career choice. He called McDaniel to convey his thoughts, expecting a brief conversation. Instead, McDaniel asked Kupsich if he was free to meet in person in one hour.

"Our conversation lasted almost three hours; for those that know Todd, this is not surprising, for he knows how to spin a good story," Kupisch said. "I left feeling recharged, rejuvenated and ready to re-engage with my work with a different mindset."

The winner in the teacher category is Nicole Ferroli, who serves as a seventh-grade English-language arts teacher at O'Neill Middle School. O'Neill parent Diane Lube and her son, RJ, nominated Ferroli.

"This teacher knows every nuance of every student's personality, including strengths and challenges," Hausmann said.