Crystal Lake Central science teacher Molly Czeslawski was named Star 105.5's Teacher of the Month for January. She was recognized for her unwavering dedication to creating a positive and engaging learning environment; students and staff highly respect her.

Molly’s ability to connect with students on a personal level sets her apart. She fosters a classroom atmosphere where everyone feels valued and empowered. Through innovative teaching methods, she encourages critical thinking, collaboration, and curiosity, helping students succeed academically and in life beyond the classroom.

“Molly is the kind of teacher who helps students feel a sense of belonging and believes in their potential for success,” said Carson, Principal of Crystal Lake Central High School. “She builds relationships that inspire students to reach their full potential and motivates them to do their best.”

Her commitment to students extends far beyond academic instruction. Molly has an exceptional ability to recognize when students need encouragement or extra time to process information, ensuring every student feels seen and supported. Her colleagues admire her ability to meet students' needs and create an environment where respect and effective learning thrive.

Molly’s classroom is a place students regularly seek to be a part of, drawn to the positive and supportive atmosphere she has cultivated. Her dedication has made a profound impact on her students, many of whom attribute their future success to the encouragement they received from Molly.

Congratulations to Molly Czeslawski on this well-deserved recognition. Her passion, empathy, and dedication continue to make a lasting impact on the Crystal Lake Central community.

Congratulations to Dr. Neil Lesinski, Superintendent of District 155, for being named as a finalist for the Innovative Superintendent of the Year award for 2024 in the State of Illinois. This annual award, sponsored by Sibme, recognizes superintendents who exhibit creative and cutting-edge strategies to foster a culture of continuous improvement among their teams. 

Dr.Lesinski has been instrumental in adapting to a changing school district. According to Dr. Kevin Werner, Chief Officer of Finance & Operations, "Neil developed an International Newcomer Center and supporting peer teacher coaching program to collaborate with our newcomer students to practice English and content-area academic skills.” By establishing a peer teacher coaching program, Dr. Lesinski ensures that professional learning is relevant to the individual needs of each teacher, and fosters a sense of community among staff.

Dr. Lesinski's approach to reflection and collaboration among teachers is rooted in active listening and empathy. "Neil treats each staff member with respect while reaching decisions through ongoing collaboration and consensus building.”

Ultimately, this sense of professional community impacts students first. As Dr. Werner shared in his nomination, “The impact that Neil has had on our district is incredible! Each year we conduct a School Culture Survey. Following his first year as Superintendent, 94.2% of students agreed that they feel like they belong in their school community, up from 74.3% from the prior year.”

Neil Lesinski’s nomination is a testament to his dedication and the positive impact he has made on Community High School District 155. His innovative approach to leadership, continuous improvement, and professional development sets a benchmark for other education leaders to follow.

Caleb Aldridge, head baseball coach at Crystal Lake Central, has been named the 2024 Class 3A Coach of the Year [Illinois High School Baseball Coaches Association]. In his first season as head coach, Aldridge guided the Tigers to a historic Class 3A State Championship, the first baseball title in school history. 

“I am very grateful and honored. The only way individuals win an award like this is by having outstanding student-athletes, assistant coaches, families, and a great school community who work tirelessly day in and out to achieve a common goal,” said Caleb Aldridge, Coach.

Aldridge’s impressive career record of 22-14 also earned him the 2024 Northwest Herald Coach of the Year award and a nomination for the ICA/NHSACA Coach of the Year award.