The Illinois Principals Association (IPA) has named Downers Grove North High School Principal Janice Schwarze as the 2020-21 DuPage Region High School Principal of the Year. Schwarze is now a candidate for the Illinois High School Principal of the Year.
“Janice is a student-centered leader who is well respected and trusted by her fellow educators, her students and their families for her ability to lead in times of calm and times of crisis” Superintendent Dr. Hank Thiele said. “Throughout her 33 years working in education, Janice has contributed greatly to supporting and encouraging students.”
“Janice is a champion for all and challenges us to create a positive and unique pathway for every student’s success,” said Ed Schwartz, principal of South High. “She has made our school and our community a better place.”
Schwarze is in her fifth and final year as principal of North High School and will retire in June. Before her time as principal, Schwarze was the Associate Principal of Curriculum & Instruction at North High School and an English teacher and department chair at South High School. Prior to District 99, Schwarze taught English at Glenbard East High School.
Outside of the district, Schwarze is a member of the Illinois Principals Association. She is also Past Chair of the Conference on English Leadership and recently completed a two-year term on the National Council of Teachers of English Executive Committee.
For more information about the Illinois Principals Association and their awards programs, visit the IPA website.