Representatives from the DuPage Illinois Principals Association presented the Principal of the Year Award to Principal Jon Pokora from Waterbury.  This prestigious award recognizes elementary school principals who make a significant and positive impact on their students, staff, and the broader school community.

Award recipients are chosen for their ability to demonstrate a positive impact on education and advocacy for children;  are highly respected by students, colleagues, and the community; maintain an orderly, purposeful learning environment;  show strong leadership by setting high standards for staff and students;  assume an active leadership role in the community; and serve as an active principal at a school in which commitment is clearly evident through programs designed to meet the academic and social needs of all students through firmly established community ties with parents and local business associations.

As the regional winner, Dr. Pokora will advance to the state-level competition for Illinois Elementary Principal of the Year. Statewide winners will be announced at the IPA Education Leaders Annual Conference in October 2025.

The Board also congratulated Principal John Gustafson from Greenbrook School, who was recently honored with the Service to Youth Award by the Village of Hanover Park.  

​The Village annually honors individuals who have significantly contributed to the community through various awards, including the Service to Youth Award. This award recognizes those who have positively impacted the lives of young people in Hanover Park.  Recipients have demonstrated a strong commitment to enhancing the lives of youth in the community.

Mayor Rodney Craig visited Greenbrook to present the award to Principal Gustafson at a staff meeting, where he shared the many reasons why he is worthy of this award!