Glenbrook South principal: 'Our students were amazing this year'

The 2020-21 academic year undoubtedly was the most challenging of Dr. Lauren Fagel's six years as principal of Glenbrook South High School, if not her 13 years overall as a high school administrator.

Still, Fagel was a constant voice of optimism in presentations before the Glenbrook High School District 225 board of trustees - even during the most difficult times of the COVID-19 pandemic.

An Ivy League undergraduate (Penn) with two master's degrees and a doctorate in education from Johns Hopkins University, the Glenview Herald asked Dr. Fagel her thoughts on the 2020-21 term at Glenbrook South.

Glenview Herald: Overall, how did you think the 2020-21 school year went?

Dr. Lauren Fagel: Overall, I felt the 20-21 school year was a success. We faced challenges that were entirely new to us, and yet we worked together to find a way forward.

My goals for the year were to keep all students and staff safe, and to provide a meaningful and productive education for our students. I feel we reached these goals - even surpassed them.

We had zero transmissions of COVID between students and between students and teachers in the classroom. Through mandatory testing, contact tracing and quarantining, increased cleaning protocols, and the use of personal protective equipment, we kept everyone safe.

Our teachers went above and beyond the call of duty to provide a meaningful and productive education for our students. They transferred their entire courses online, and they adjusted to teaching two groups of students - those at home and those at school. This was extremely difficult, but they rose to the occasion.

Most importantly, we cared for our students, their families, and each other.

GH: Since hindsight is 20/20, is there anything you would have liked to have done differently as a school or district? What were the main challenges COVID-19 presented?

LF: I can't think of anything I would have done differently. I discussed the main challenges above - keeping everyone safe from COVID and providing a meaningful and productive education.

GH: It's often been said since the pandemic struck that students have proved resilient. How has that been displayed at Glenbrook South?

LF: Our students were amazing this year. Those at home on Zoom and those who attended classes, activities and/or sports in person, they all did such a fantastic job in complying with the safety protocols, meeting the requirements of the COVID testing program, and navigating the ups and downs we all faced.

They planned safe, in-person activities, such as Fall Fest and homecoming. They came out for sports, even though that meant taking on the risk of being quarantined. They supported each other and their teachers in classes. They competed virtually on their academic teams such as debate, Model United Nations, and chess team.

I could not be more proud of their efforts. In particular, the seniors modeled for the younger students what it means to persevere through challenging circumstances.

GH: How did the school community and parents help during this school year?

LF: I received numerous emails and phone calls from parents throughout the school year, offering support, thanking us for making in-person learning a reality, and asking great questions. I always enjoy connecting with parents and community members, as it "closes the circle" of support around our students.

I agree with the African proverb, "It takes a village to raise a child." It requires all of the adults in a community to love and nurture our youth. Only through open, honest communication and mutual respect can we prepare our youth for the best possible future.

GH: What were your top three highlights of 2020-21?

LF: Welcoming staff and students back to the building throughout the year.

Our first home basketball game.

Senior Prom at Pinstripes in Northbrook.

GH: At this time, how will the 2021-22 school year look?

LF: We are planning for the 21-22 school year to look and feel like a normal school year, with in-person learning for all students and staff. We will return to our normal bell schedule. We will continue to monitor the CDC, IDPH, and ISBE guidelines for schools, and we will implement any necessary safety strategies.