Lake County Gazette

Staff from Grayslake Central and Grayslake North High Schools gathered to mark the start of the 2025-26 academic year with an Opening Day event focused on community building. The celebration included performances by both schools’ marching bands, appearances by mascots Aires the Ram and Nigel the Knight, humorous displays featuring oversized posters of new staff members, and messages from community partners and parents.

Superintendent Dr. Mikkel Storaasli addressed attendees at the event. “This event, and January’s D127 Day, serve as powerful and visible reminders that we are one district, united in our mission to empower all learners to launch their futures,” Storaasli said. “When staff feel connected, inspired, and supported, our students reap the benefits.”

A highlight of the morning was a tribute to retiree Patrick O’Connell, Department Chair for Student Services, who received a Golden Jacket in recognition of his service.

The district welcomed over 40 new staff members this year across teaching, paraprofessional, and support roles. The event aimed to introduce them to the culture of Grayslake Community High School District 127.

Storaasli also commented on the importance of such gatherings: “When schools make space for connection, celebration, and fun, we strengthen the atmosphere of learning,” he said. “That’s when students and staff are truly engaged and present in every way.”

Grayslake Community High School District 127 serves Lake County through its two high schools—Grayslake Central and Grayslake North—underlining its commitment to fostering a sense of belonging among both students and staff (https://www.illinoisreportcard.com/). According to data from the Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE), there are 195 teachers in District 127 with an average salary of $79,647; nearly 60 percent are women while just over 40 percent are men. The ISBE also reports that no teachers in the district have more than ten absences per school year (https://www.illinoisreportcard.com/).

Demographically, District 127 is composed of approximately 58.5 percent White students, with Hispanic students making up about a quarter of enrollment; Black students represent just over four percent while Asian students account for about seven percent (https://www.illinoisreportcard.com/). In terms of finances, spending per student was $31,874 in 2020 for a total expenditure exceeding $88 million (https://www.illinoisreportcard.com/).

As classes begin for another year in District 127, leaders say they hope these efforts will contribute to a strong educational environment throughout Lake County.