This year, Schafer Elementary School welcomes new Principal Julie Morse and Assistant Principal Chris Heath.
A veteran of the District, Mrs. Morse began her time in District 45 in 1999 as a classroom teacher at Schafer and has served as assistant principal since 2013. Last year, Mrs. Morse served as interim principal at Stevenson School.
“Schafer is such a special place, and this year we are going to build and grow the connections within our school community,” said Mrs. Morse. “I want our students to understand that they are part of something very special. I want them to know that they belong here, have people supporting them, and are loved, safe, and cared for at Schafer.”
As someone new to District 45, Mr. Heath is greatly impressed by the staff at Schafer School.
“They’re amazing. They love being here, and they love the kids. They’re passionate about what they do and want every child to succeed. It’s an amazing staff.”
For Mr. Heath, the 2023-24 school year will be his 17th year in education. Mr. Heath began his career teaching middle school in Aurora, Illinois. He then worked as a district facilitator of science and social studies and as a STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) coordinator. Most recently, Mr. Heath worked as an assistant principal and interim principal.
“I am looking forward to partnering with families to help our students grow and achieve academic success,” said Mr. Heath.
“We see great things for Schafer this year,” said Mrs. Morse. “There’s an energy here where our students can grow academically and in their relationships with other students and their teachers. They will be prepared to advance to the next grade.”
“Don’t sleep on the Sharks,” added Mr. Heath. “I think we are going to surprise some people this year. We are going to see a great deal of success.”
Mrs. Morse added that she is looking forward to deepening Schafer’s partnership with families.
“I want to help families feel comfortable coming to us with any question or concern or just to say hello and be able to put a face with the name.”
For specific questions or concerns related to their child, Mrs. Morse and Mr. Heath always prefer an appointment to reserve a specific time for a parent.
Families can contact Mrs. Morse at (630) 516-7654 or [email protected] and Mr. Heath at (630) 516-7704 or [email protected].