Staff Spotlight

Mrs. Lo Cascio is a math and scholars teacher at Thomas Jefferson Middle School and she has worked in District 15 for 19 years. She says, “Every day I have the opportunity to make a difference in my students’ lives while working with a dedicated, fun staff. Plus, there is never a dull moment!”

Ms. Recinas is a social worker at Lincoln Elementary School and she has worked in District 15 for 27 years. She says, “I have worked in several schools in District 15 and have been at Lincoln School for the past 19 years. I love getting to know our students and families and helping in any way possible. My favorite thing about District 15 and Lincoln School is working as a team with my amazing coworkers that show up everyday to give their best to our students!”

Menka is a Nurse at Thomas Jefferson Middle School and she has worked in District 15 for 3 years. She says, “I love how the whole school collaborates and works so well together to ensure that our students have the best education that we can give them, while also keeping them safe and healthy. We are all here because we care about our students. I am very proud to be a part of the D15 family!!”

Carly Funk is a 4th Grade (with ESL) classroom teacher at Frank C. Whiteley and she has worked in District 15 for 9 years. She says, “I love being able to go to work while also helping each and every one of my students learn and grow in new ways! It is a privilege to work at a school with such caring and collaborative teachers and staff.”

Selene is a bus assistant and she has worked in District 15 for 7 years. She says her favorite thing about working here is, “seeing students grow over the years. I’ve known some students since they were in Pre-K and now are 5th graders.”

Jennifer is an SIP Program Assistant at Marion Jordan Elementary School and she has worked in District 15 for 4 years. She says, “This position is truly helping me with my Masters in Teaching program. I have also decided to switch from Gen Ed to SPED teaching.”

Ms. Cotten is a third grade teacher at Frank C. Whiteley and she has worked in District 15 for 2 years. She says, “My favorite thing about working in District 15 is seeing the love and support given by staff! I love the welcoming environment our district gives and it's truly wonderful to see how well we all come together to support one another. District 15 easily becomes a home! :)”

Mrs. Jessup is a Bus Driver Training Coordinator at District 15 and she has worked in District 15 for 6 years. She says, “My favorite thing about working in District 15 is the kids! I love their stories. We transport the worlds most precious cargo and there is never a dull moment in transportation.”

Mrs. Denz is a 5th grade teacher at Frank C. Whiteley and she has worked in District 15 for 5 years. She says, “Seeing the growth of my students throughout the year, building lasting relationships with students, and when students come back to visit!”

Mrs. Franke is a Library Innovation Teacher at Kimball Hill and she has worked in District 15 for 29 years. She says, “In my 29 years in D15 I have worked in various positions at several buildings, teaching numerous students and serving hundreds of staff members. No two days are ever the same, and the connections I've made with students and staff will me last a lifetime.”

Mr. Sobel is a Physical Education Teacher at Hunting Ridge and he has worked in District 15 for 23 years. He says, "One of the most exciting and rewarding things about working in physical education is that I can introduce new skills and fitness concepts to elementary students. It is exciting to see student's confidence and self esteem improve as they develop their skills. I also enjoy making connections with the students and the community I teach in!"

Ms. Karsbaek is an Art Teacher at Lincoln School and she has worked in District 15 for 17 years. She says, "I love getting to teach my students year after year. I get to see them grow and mature from new artists into more experienced creators."