Jackelyn Cardard exudes enthusiasm when she talks about Grove Children’s Preschool. She says she particularly enjoys Meet the Teacher Day, when new preschoolers enter a classroom for the first time, bustling with energy and anticipation as a new chapter opens in their lives. She loves watching the preschoolers grow into successful elementary school students, knowing that Grove Children’s Preschool set a strong foundation for their future academic achievement.
“It’s great to see them progress!” Cadard says.
It was her passion and enthusiasm that led Cadard to apply for the preschool coordinator position at Grove Children’s Preschool this past spring. She previously served eight years as a preschool teacher within the program.
District 58 hired Cadard, noting her history of excellence within the Grove Children’s Preschool program.
“As a preschool teacher, she served on numerous district committees, launched several pre-kindergarten initiative pilots and provided teacher leadership within the program. We're pleased to have her onboard in this new capacity!" said Jessica Stewart, assistant superintendent for special services.
In her new role, Cadard looks forward to building a community with the program’s 200 families. She’s already planning a series of Family Fun Nights – themed evenings where preschoolers and their families can get together to read, play games, do crafts or learn about kindergarten. The first Family Fun Night will feature a focus on reading and will take place in October.
Since joining the District 58 team last spring, Cadard has spent time working and learning from fellow District 58 administrators.
“I have so much respect for the administrators. Their level of commitment is so evident in our school community. Everyone in the District is driven to support student success and achievement, and it comes from the top down,” Cadard says.
Outside of District 58, Cadard is the assistant varsity softball coach for Naperville Community School District 203. She also provides community service for Little Friends and other local organizations. Cadard received her educational specialist degree in administration and supervision from National-Louis University. She also earned her master's degree in special education from National-Louis University and her bachelor degree in early childhood education from the University of Illinois.
Learn more about Grove Children’s Preschool at www.dg58.org/preschool.