Glenbrook superintendent: Seniors went 'above and beyond' to find success
The Class of 2021 had to endure a number of challenges during their time at the Glenbrooks.
In the middle of their junior year, the unthinkable worldwide shutdown happened due to the COVID-19 pandemic, but that didn't stop any of them from continuing their lives by adapting to a new normal. Students' homes became the classroom, drive-by parades became the new way to celebrate a milestone, and the world was able to stand still and reflect on the little things that matter the most.
At the start of their senior year of high school, there was no way of knowing what would happen, but that didn't stop students from participating in after-school activities, keeping up with their schoolwork, and making the most of each day.
Students went above and beyond thinking of ways to have annual events in the new normal. When homecoming was canceled in the fall, that didn't stop students at both Glenbrook North and Glenbrook South from putting together a drive-by fall event for the whole community to enjoy.
When sports started back up, the GBN Pep Band made sure to keep basketball players and the small crowd excited throughout games by performing their playlist in the band room. The GBS boys swim team became state champions this year, despite a shortened season.
Thank goodness for our incredible staff who found ways to make all of these achievements and successes happen!
In reflecting on the year, while attending the end-of-the-year games and ceremonies, I am struck by how hard our entire staff worked to make this year as normal as possible. They saw the mix of fear and excitement that our students carried when they returned to school and rose to the challenge. The level of professional drive, mission and self-sacrifice exhibited by our staff has amazed me. I'm proud to be in the same profession as them.
I am thankful to both (Glenbrook South Principal) Dr. Lauren Fagel and (Glenbrook North Principal) Mr. Jason Markey for a wonderful school year. Their leadership and efforts to bring as much normalcy to this year did not go unnoticed. Their teams' diligence and perseverance kept students and staff as safe as possible and ensured that our students continued to receive a first-class education.
As this senior class closes one chapter of their lives, they will take the skills and memories they have made at District 225 and carry them into the next one.
I and the rest of the Glenbrook Community are excited to see where their journeys take them next.
Until we meet again, congratulations Class of 2021.