Libertyville School Distirct 70 named 2015 Top Workplaces
Libertyville School District 70 received a "2015 Top Workplaces" honor - ranking 11th among medium-sized companies based on survey results of employees calculated by an outside company.
Top Workplaces are determined solely on the results of an employee feedback survey administered by WorkplaceDynamics LLC, a research firm specializing in organizational health and workplace improvement. Several aspects of workplace culture were measured, including alignment, execution and connection, and taken by District 70 staff members at the end of last school year. Companies are selected to see how they rate among workplaces.
"The findings were overwhelmingly positive and areas of focus and direction were offered as valuable critique," said Superintendent Dr. Guy Schumacher, who was not afraid to see feedback collected by an outside company. "As a culture that commits to continuous improvement, this recognition is quite an honor for our learning community. I could not be more proud of the work that staff does and the positions they hold that make Libertyville School District 70 such a positive place to work. District 70 employees make an astounding difference for children, families, as well as one another.
Some of the highlights of the survey include sharing the values and ethics of the District 70 workplace, including a visionary superintendent who is in touch with employees. Principals were lauded for being approachable and cooperative, and encouraging of growing with new ideas. Staff members said they feel appreciated and able to reach their full potential, and that the community values education and offers support. When asked what was the most meaningful part of working in the district, staff members overwhelmingly said "the students."
One staff member also called the district "the best of the best."
Teachers noted they "are making a difference in my students' lives," feel rewarded by work and successfully create a safe atmosphere for their students. For the most part, staff members also said they like their salaries, would recommend the district to others and are not looking to find another job.
As for the concerns, some staff members noted there was too much time spent with standardized testing (having introduced two such tests last school year), and teachers weren't thrilled that curriculum for English and math were both updated the same year. Other concerns included offering on-site day care and more professional development.
"The Top Workplaces award is not a popularity contest. And oftentimes, people assume it's all about fancy perks and benefits." said Doug Claffey, CEO of WorkplaceDynamics. "But to be a Top Workplace, organizations must meet our strict standards for organizational health. And who better to ask about work life than the people who live the culture every day: the employees? Time and time again, our research has proven that what's most important to them is a strong belief in where the organization is headed, how it's going to get there, and the feeling that everyone is in it together."
"Without this sense of connection," he said, "an organization doesn't have a shot at being named a Top Workplace."
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