Mike Graham’s physical education (PE) class at Williamsburg Elementary School is full of energy, games and music. He creatively incorporates activities into his class that get students moving and having fun for the two short periods each week that he sees each class. “I LOVE creating engaging lessons and seeing the joy that movement brings kids,” he said.  

As a seasoned educator and school psychologist at Geneva High School, Michelle Vargas-Herbst has dedicated more than 15 years to nurturing the minds and hearts of Geneva’s high school students. Her days are filled with evaluating the academic and emotional growth of students, facilitating group sessions, and providing one-on-one guidance. She collaborates closely with teachers, staff, and parents to ensure every student's case is managed with personalized care. 

At the heart of Geneva High School's vibrant educational community is Susan Shrader, the esteemed Dean of Students, whose passion for student success radiates throughout the halls. Since joining the GHS family in August 2007, Ms. Shrader has become a cornerstone of support and guidance, fostering an environment where students can thrive. In fact, Ms. Shrader’s hard work will be recognized this spring as she is a nominee for the Kane County Regional Office of Education’s Educator of the Year award in the category of School Administrator. 

At Geneva High School, Learning Behavior Specialist Eric Schulget brings learning to life for students. Since joining the Geneva 304 family in August 2022, Mr. Schulget has woven a rich tapestry of US history and government, pre-algebra, and algebra 1A, igniting young minds with the flames of knowledge and curiosity. The highlight of his role is the vibrant interaction with students—be it a casual chat in the bustling hallways, occasionally joining them in the cafeteria at lunch, or offering a listening ear and guidance through the labyrinth of academia and life's myriad challenges.

When Brigid Buchman joined the Geneva School District in 2007, she brought more than just her degree in elementary education from Northern Illinois University. Her journey to teaching was a fascinating one—she had previously worked at the Chicago Board of Trade and the Chicago Mercantile Exchange and was a dedicated stay-at-home mom. But her true calling was always education, inspired by her parents who were both teachers.

Tracey Pankow, the principal's secretary at Harrison Street School, plays an integral role in ensuring that day-to-day school operations run smoothly. From assisting Principal Hirsch with various tasks, to handling events and unexpected situations, Ms. Pankow's expertise is invaluable. She is always ready to lend a hand to students, parents, and staff alike, ensuring that the main office functions seamlessly.

“Every day is different. I never know what is going to happen which makes my job very exciting,” she said.

Ms. MacDonald, School Social Worker at Geneva Middle School South has been a school social worker for 11 years. Ms. MacDonald attended Geneva Schools as a child from kindergarten through high school, so she was excited when she was hired at the district in August 2019.  

Mrs. Orozco is the Geneva School District’s new elementary orchestra teacher. She will be based at Harrison Street School and will serve all elementary schools. She is excited to meet her new students and share the world of playing string instruments. “I’m looking forward to having a wonderful year full of learning and growing,” she said.

Mrs. Jurkynas is excited about her new role at the Geneva School District as a learning behavior specialist. “I’m interested in creating a rapport with each student and their families,” she said. “Together, we can assist students as they achieve their goals. We’ll have an amazing 2022-2023 year!”

Mr. Espana joins the Geneva School District this academic year as a school psychologist, serving the middle schools and high school. “What excites me most about being a school psychologist at Geneva CUSD 304 is becoming a part of a tight knit community that centers itself around a clear vision and goal of supporting the academic, behavioral, and emotional success of our students,” he said.

Mr. Mays brings 20 years of experience in the financial services industry to his work as a new business teacher at Geneva High School. “I am most excited about the opportunity to work with Geneva High School students and to help our future entrepreneurs, business-minded people, and future leaders,” he said.

Early each morning long before the school day begins, Geneva School District Bus Driver Jeannie Bean, or Miss Jeannie as the students call her, thoroughly inspects her bus, as required by law. She emphasized the importance of safety for the transportation department. “Safety is number one,” she said. “We never get in a bus that’s not fit to be on the road.”

Audrey Bridges, Building Services Coordinator (BSC), is passionate about making sure that the students and teachers of the district have a clean, safe school environment for teaching and learning.

“Audrey has done excellent work in our district,” said (former) Geneva School District Superintendent Kent Mutchler. “She provides excellent leadership that we will miss. She puts students first in her work.”

In fact, she loves her job so much that her that even though she is retiring to Alabama next summer after more than 20 years in the district, she is considering finding a job at a school.