The Downers Grove Grade School District 58 Board of Education approved on May 14 the appointment of Lauri Cole to the assistant principal position at Hillcrest and Pierce Downer schools, starting July 30, 2018. Cole will replace Mel Sawisch, who was promoted to principal of Kingsley School.
“Ms. Cole has a strong student-centered mindset with an overall focus on supporting students, staff and families as a whole,” said Hillcrest Principal Michelle Rzepka. “We are very excited to welcome her to our school!”
Superintendent Dr. Kari Cremascoli echoed that sentiment.
“The interview team shared that they were impressed by Ms. Cole’s commitment to learning and desire to collaborate with and coach staff,” Dr. Cremascoli said. “She is described as a positive, self-motivated educator, who is passionate about supporting student growth. We are confident that Ms. Cole will serve as a great asset to Hillcrest and Pierce Downer schools.”
Cole currently serves as the assistant principal of Liberty School in Plainfield Community Consolidated School District 202. Prior to that role, she served as the assistant director of student services for Naperville School District 203 and as a special education/resource teacher for Troy Community Consolidated School District 30C, Evergreen Park School District 124 and the Kendall County Special Education Cooperative.
“I am very impressed with the culture at both Hillcrest and Pierce Downer, and I am excited to become a part of it,” Cole said. “I look forward to working with both schools to cultivate and sustain their commitment to educating the whole child.”
Cole earned her master’s degree in educational leadership and administration with a special education endorsement from Lewis University and a bachelor’s degree in special education and teaching from Northern Illinois University.