Downers Grove Grade School District 58 proudly announces that the Illinois Music Education Association (ILMEA) has selected District 58 Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum and Instruction Justin Sisul as the recipient of its 2021 Outstanding Administrator Award. This award is annually given to an Illinois school administrator who supports his or her music program in a manner only possible as an administrator. The award is presented to a superintendent, principal or other top administrator, and recognizes excellence in encouragement and promotion of music education within Illinois. Sisul formally received the award during ILMEA’s Illinois Music Education Conference on Jan. 27 in Peoria.
“On behalf of ILMEA I would like to congratulate you on being selected to receive the Outstanding Administrator Award,” said ILMEA State President-Elect Curtis Fischer-Oelschlaeger. “Your dedication to ILMEA and music in your schools is inspiring.”
Sisul has worked in District 58 for over 20 years. Prior to his current role as assistant superintendent for curriculum and instruction, he has also served as the principal of Pierce Downer School, as the assistant principal/administrative intern at Lester School, and as a music teacher and choir director at Herrick Middle School.
“I have known Justin since my first days in District 58 as a new teacher,” said Christine Kaminski, instrumental music-band teacher at O’Neill, El Sierra, Fairmount, Hillcrest and Indian Trail schools. “Over the years, I have benefitted from the inspiring example he set as a fellow music educator, his mentorship as a building administrator and evaluator who helped me reflect on and improve my own teaching practice, and his leadership as a district-level administrator whose energy and tireless passion for education continue to elevate what we offer our students in Downers Grove. This recognition is well-deserved, and it’s wonderful to see him honored in this way.”
Outside of District 58, Sisul has served as ILMEA’s District 1 president and as ILMEA’s Music Educator Development president.
“Justin is a strong advocate for the music program in District 58 and the Downers Grove community,” said Superintendent Dr. Kevin Russell. “He consistently goes above and beyond to ensure that our students receive the best music education possible. He also works closely with staff to make sure they are supported and have what they need to support students. This dedication to our students and staff is one of the primary reasons we have such an outstanding music program.”
“Our music program is a strong asset in Downers Grove District 58, and Justin's leadership provides a strong foundation that supports our staff, students and families,” added Julie Spring, orchestra director at O’Neill, Fairmount, Hillcrest and Indian Trail schools.