Director of Pupil and Personnel Services

Welcome to the Department of Pupil and Personnel Services of Thornton Township High School District 205! 

Our vision is for students to be placed in the least restrictive environment for all of their classes. Our mission is for all students to be enrolled in an institute of higher learning or a vocational program, enlisted in the military, or gainfully employed upon graduating from high school.

As the Director of Pupil and Personnel Services, I oversee many vital school resources that give students the assistance they need to successfully complete their high school career. The department is responsible for the following District 205 divisions, programs, and initiatives:

• Special Education
• English learners
• Section 504 Plan Compliance
• Homeless liaison
• Foster care liaison
• Medical contracts
• IDEA and Title III Grants
• Discipline review
• Paraprofessionals
• Special Olympics
• Infant Care Center

Our department takes a holistic view of each student and we provide the resources and supportive services that they need. The District’s school psychologists, social workers, speech pathologists, and nurses are an integral part of the services that we offer.  They utilize their expertise in the areas of physical, mental, and behavioral health and communication assistance to help our students feel supported, challenged, healthy, safe, and engaged. 

Our entire staff is committed to going above and beyond to prepare students to be behaviorally and emotionally ready to achieve academically.   In fact, the Illinois Education Association recognized the significant contributions of two members of our support staff by presenting them with the “Illinois Support Staff Person of the Year” award.

In addition to creating an academic environment that addresses their behavioral and emotional needs, we also offer students after-school activities that are enjoyable. For example, we have more than 15 forms of Special Olympic sports and we have teams that are designated for students with disabilities and those that are open to all District 205 students. These teams have been very successful and have earned several state titles. Our dedicated coaches have received the “Outstanding Coach” award from Region E of the Special Olympics of Illinois for their technical skills and personal commitment to the physical, social and psychological well being of the athletes.

With 20 years of experience in various educational roles, I have had the privilege to serve as a Director of Pupil and Personnel Services and Director of Section 504 Plan Compliance, among others. My journey has also included roles such as the District Homeless and Foster Liaison, managing Medical Contracts, overseeing multiple grants, handling District Discipline, and coordinating Medicaid Fee for Service and Administrative Claims. Each role has enriched my understanding and commitment to fostering an inclusive and supportive environment for all students.

I look forward to serving as a resource for our District 205 families.

Thornridge Contact: 708-271-4460

Thornton Contact: 708-225-4010

Thornwood Contact: 708-225-4784