News Briefs: Wilmette teacher lauded; Changes for D112 administration; New gallery at Northfield Village Hall

Alicia Wiechert, a library information specialist at Romona Elementary School in Wilmette, earned recognition from the Illinois State Board of Education.

Wiechert was honored with the Award of Meritorious Service, which is given to educators who demonstrate a deep commitment to their school community and make a positive impact. The award was part of ISBE’s Those Who Excel and Teacher of the Year awards.

“I am so happy to see Alicia get recognized for her tremendous work,” said Dr. Kari Cremascoli, Superintendent of District 39, in a statement. “She has inspired and encouraged those around her to be courageous and engaged learners. Alicia demonstrates a positive and innovative attitude in her professional responsibilities as well as a commitment to supporting a lifelong love of reading among all students and staff while promoting inclusivity, kindness and belonging for all. We are grateful for all of her work in the Romona and Wilmette communities and for her leadership amongst District 39 educators.”

Wiechert has worked at Romona Elementary School for 13 years. During that time, she has forged a strong bond with her students, peers, colleagues, and the Mustang community, according to a release from District 39.

She is known for her thoughtful arrangement of the school’s library and learning commons, as well as her supportive and caring demeanor. Wiechert participates in the school’s diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging committee and promotes these values throughout the Romona community, the release says.

In addition to her work in the library and on the DEIB committee, Wiechert is also involved with the Romona Elementary School’s “One Book, One School” program, which aims to build literacy and create a shared literary experience for the students of the district. She was recently awarded a grant that allowed storyboards to be delivered to every elementary school in the district.

“Alicia is a leader at Romona, inspiring us all to consider the impact of literature on our students,” Romona Principal Cindy Anderson said in the release. “She engages in meaningful discussions with the staff and community on how to ensure that all students are included and belong. She is a trusted teacher to her students and creates a safe place where all students feel comfortable to be themselves. Alicia exemplifies the characteristics of this award and we are so proud that she has been recognized for all of her incredible work for the Romona community.”

Wiechert will be celebrated by ISBE at a banquet on May 18 in Normal.

Several changes underway for District 112 administration

The North Shore School District 112 has announced a series of administration changes for the 2024-2025 school year.

According to the district, James Bock, who has served as a member of the district’s maintenance team, will take on the role of director of operations, facilities and transportation.

Currently a principal at Sherwood Elementary School, Rachel Filippi will become the district’s new student services coordinator. Filippi has served as a special education teacher and in various administrative positions in North Shore elementary schools.

Kevin Saunders is moving from an associate principal to principal of Sherwood Elementary.

Arielle Gleicher, who has served as an associate principal at Edgewood Middle School since 2021, will become principal of Wayne Thomas Elementary.

Colleen Goodrich, an associate principal at Wayne Thomas Elementary School since 2020, will move to Edgewood Middle School as an associate principal.

Jaclyn Wagner will become the new associate principal of Wayne Thomas Elementary School.

Two other administrators will also change their positions. Jeremy Wickham, who has served as an associate principal at Oak Terrace and director of technology, will become executive director of technology and operations. Jeremy Davis, who has served as an assistant superintendent since 2021, will become assistant superintendent for business services and CSBO.

“I am excited and proud that North Shore School District 112 continues to develop leaders to serve our students, staff, and families,” Deputy Superintendent Dr. Monica Schroeder said in a news release. “Each of these individuals brings a unique blend of experience, dedication, and passion, and I am confident that their collective expertise will elevate the educational experience for our students. The future looks bright, and it is an honor to serve with a team poised to make a lasting impact on our district’s success.”

Art of local students at Northfield Village Hall

Northfield Village Hall will host an exhibition of art created by New Trier middle school students, the culmination of a winter program designed to enrich the local arts community.

The artwork, which consists of drawings, acrylic, oil and watercolor paintings, reflects the skills of students Shelly Berk, Ellen Binder, Howard Cohen, Maggie Gleason, Pamela Goren, Diana Hackbarth, Sue Janusz, Tom Jennings, Carol Krofl, Nancy Kupke, Jean Lyne, Joseph McPhillips, Diane Moe, Holly O’Connor, Robert Pan Krauskas, Christine Porter, Robert Sawyer, Susan Segal, Wendy Sharon, Rachel Siegel, Nancy Streiff, and Fran Vail.

The artwork is the product of adult learners in both Tom James’ and Fran Vail’s art classes offered through the New Trier Extension program. This community education program offers more than 300 onsite classes throughout the year to help residents exercise, create, learn new skills and play games.

An opening ceremony for the exhibition will be held from 5-7 p.m. on Tuesday, Feb. 20, at Village Hall. The exhibit will remain open any time the gallery is open, from 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m.

The Record is a nonprofit, nonpartisan community newsroom that relies on reader support to fuel its independent local journalism.

Subscribe to The Record to fund responsible news coverage for your community.

Already a subscriber? You can make a tax-deductible donation at any time.