Addison Trail alum named to District 88 school board

A 2002 graduate of Addison Trail High School, Tina Haralambopoulos has been named to the DuPage High School District 88 school board.

She replaces Timothy Gillen, who resigned. She will serve until the April 2, 2019, election.

Haralambopoulos was a member of Addison Trail's varsity girls swim team, the Blazettes and the art staff. Many of her family members are alumni of Addison Trail, including her parents and sisters.

District 88 serves both Addison Trail and Willowbrook high schools.

"There is no greater gift than giving back to the district that played a large part in my life," Haralambopoulos said. "I have been a resident of Addison for the majority of my life and attended Addison public schools for eight years - including being an alumna of Addison Trail."

Haralambopoulos received her associate degree in science from College of DuPage, her bachelor's in elementary education from Northern Illinois University and her master's in curriculum and instruction from Concordia University, where she also is pursuing her doctoral degree in organizational leadership.

She began her career in education seven years ago as an elementary teacher at a private school in Schaumburg and now teaches English as a Second Language at a hybrid charter school in Chicago.

"My career is my passion, and this is a great opportunity to bring a teacher's perspective to the District 88 board of education," she said.

"I am looking forward to working with a great team to continue the district's work of focusing on creating the best school environment for students and staff.

"My personal philosophy with education always puts students in the driver's seat of their learning. I believe my philosophy of student education aligns very well with District 88's mission and vision."

Haralambopoulos will be sworn in on Aug. 27.

"It's always fulfilling and a great testament to the district to have alumni come home and step up to serve their alma mater," board President Donna Craft Cain said.

"She will expand our collective knowledge and perspective and will help ensure we remain student-focused."

Gillen has served on the board since 2011.

In addition to Craft Cain, the board includes Jay Irvin, Sharon Kucik, Thomas Edmier, Blanca Jessen and Mark Turk.