Kaneland's new leader energized for new year

Tony Valente, the new Kaneland High School principal, is preparing for his first year by trying to meet as many people as possible.

And, he wants to look at the school's improvement plan and reach out to faculty, students and community members in his first year, he said.

Valente, a Sugar Grove resident, said he is excited about working in the community where he lives.

"I've always dreamed of working and living in the same community, so I can get to know the kids, families and communities very well," he said. "To know the good, the bad, and what needs to be changed, you have to be in it." See story on Page 3.