Lake County Gazette

Each November, Westminster Public Schools observes a tradition of reflecting on gratitude. Superintendent Dr. Jeni Gotto addressed the school community, emphasizing the importance of taking time to thank those around us and celebrate what makes the district special.

Dr. Gotto expressed her personal appreciation for her family and her professional gratitude for serving as superintendent. She shared, “On a personal level, I am so grateful to have a healthy loving family, which includes my son, who is a student here in this district. Professionally, I am so appreciative of the opportunity to serve as the superintendent of this district and help educate our young students.”

This year, Dr. Gotto and her team invited staff members to share their own expressions of gratitude:

“As a seasoned teacher, but first year in WPS, I am extremely grateful for our competency-based system. We can meet our students where they are, whether it is truly bringing them up to grade level or helping them go above and beyond. This is such a blessing for me as a teacher and for our students.” — Cheyenne Stock

“I am grateful for every family member that has come before me that has sacrificed, persevered, and overcome so that I can live comfortably with the many opportunities that I am given and able to thrive upon.” — Stephanae Gutierrez-McKain

“I am grateful for my family, my pup, and the amazing staff at Sherrelwood Elementary.” — Kodi Kelly

“This month, I’m thankful for my grandfather, Stanley Frost, whose service and dedication continue to inspire me. His example reminds me daily of the importance of integrity and perseverance. I’m also grateful for my new friend, Travis Sunia, whose kindness and positivity have been a real source of encouragement.” — Josh Frost

“I am grateful for my daughter and husband. My daughter is four and she constantly reminds me to be excited about the simplest things.” — Carli Yameen

“As an immigrant and now a proud U.S. citizen, I am deeply thankful for the sacrifices and courage of our Veterans. Their service not only protects our freedom here at home but also inspires people around the world with the values of hope, resilience, and unity.” — Daniela Popick

“I am most grateful for the opportunity to be with these amazing kids, staff and team. All the dedication comes through every day.” — Kristiana Karlin

Dr. Gotto said these messages demonstrate how gratitude connects people through family ties, friendship, service commitments, and shared goals in supporting students’ success.

She concluded by thanking all members of Westminster Public Schools: “From all of us at Westminster Public Schools, thank you for being part of this incredible community. May you have a joyful and peaceful November filled with gratitude.”

The Waukegan Community Unit School District 60 serves Lake County schools including Andrew Cooke Magnet Elementary School; Carman-Buckner Elementary School; Clearview Elementary School; Daniel Webster Middle School; Early Learning Center; Glen Flora Elementary School; Glenwood Elementary School; Greenwood Elementary School; H.R. McCall Elementary School; Hyde Park Elementary School; Jack Benny Middle School; John S. Clark Elementary School; Little Fort Elementary School; Lyon Magnet Elementary School; Miguel Juarez Middle School; North Elementary School; Oakdale Elementary School; Robert E. Abbott Middle School; Thomas Jefferson Middle School; Washington Elementary School; Waukegan High School; Whittier Elementary School (https://www.illinoisreportcard.com/).

According to state data from ISBE (https://www.illinoisreportcard.com/), Waukegan Community Unit School District 60’s student population is predominantly Hispanic at 79.5 percent while 13.2 percent are Black students.

ISBE also reports there are 1,014 teachers in Waukegan Community Unit District 60 earning an average salary of $63,524 before pension contributions (https://www.illinoisreportcard.com/). The teaching staff is made up primarily by women (71 percent) with no teachers recording more than ten absences during any school year.

In terms of finances reported by ISBE (https://www.illinoisreportcard.com/), spending per student in 2020 was $23,429 across total expenditures amounting to $359 million.