I am thrilled to celebrate the remarkable journey and achievements of the six outstanding individuals who have just completed The Instructional Leadership Fellowship (ILF), a two-and-a-half-year program we led in collaboration with The Opportunity Trust, designed for aspiring school and instructional leaders. This program, which I had the honor to help shape and lead with the support of some incredible colleagues (Jonathan Richard, Aida Cruz-Farin, Suzanne Lipovsky, Ayanna Banks), was a comprehensive and rigorous experience that included monthly professional learning sessions, two inspiring out-of-state school visits to Brooklyn and New Orleans, and personalized one-on-one coaching.
Please join me in recognizing the incredible accomplishments of our Fellows: Nick Guadiana, Sarah Draper, Marian Fukuyama, Beverly Velloff, Susan Hill, Ed.D., and Amy Willems.
Each of these leaders undertook and completed an impact project capstone that highlighted their dedication to enhancing student outcomes. Their projects were nothing short of incredible, demonstrating innovative approaches, unwavering commitment, and measurable impacts on their schools and communities.
Nick Guadiana tackled student work analysis in PLCs, bringing transformative changes to his team at Kairos Academies.
Sarah Draper developed and led a comprehensive tier-two academic intervention program, resulting in significant academic growth for North Side Community School students.
Marian Fukuyama employed 360 wraparound services and interventions for students struggling with attendance, which led to increased attendance and academic outcomes.
Beverly Velloff executed a secondary math curriculum rollout that was truly incredible, achieving considerable staff buy-in, and is already leading to early increases in student achievement.
Dr. Susan Hill drove the adoption and continued implementation of an elementary literacy-based social studies curriculum, culminating in strong growth in ELA achievement.
Amy Willems spearheaded an effort to support her colleagues in utilizing best practices in reading instruction at City Garden Montessori School, resulting in considerable reading achievement gains over the year for students in grades K-2.
Their dedication and hard work over these past two and a half years have been truly inspiring. From our monthly learning sessions to the in-depth school visits, and through the personal coaching sessions, these fellows have shown exceptional growth, resilience, and a steadfast commitment to excellence in education.
Congratulations, Nick, Sarah, Marian, Beverly, Susan, and Amy! Your leadership and passion for education are making a significant difference in the lives of students. I am excited to see how each of you will continue to influence and inspire in your future endeavors.
Program Director for Inclusive Innovation, UChicago Office of Civic Engagement
3wWay to go Nilesh Patel !