LM Nov-Dec_2021

ntendent of theYear

Goreville CUSD#1

the district has continually improved on student discipline and improved performance... while making certain that all students have the best technology available to them, no matter their ability or poverty level.

it’s common to see residents donning similar school district attire, especially on Friday nights during the basketball season. The school district—also the village’s biggest employer—is uniquely entwined in Goreville to the point a popular phrase among residents is “we bleed black and gold” in honor of the school’s colors. Also, when you drive into town you see two rows of green signs that express each state championship the school district has won over the years and even the Goreville FFA, who were national champions at one time. Having grown up in Goreville, Dr. Webb understands that passion. He knows the people of Goreville and the residents know him. In some situations that familiarity could backfire. But Todd Tripp, Goreville CUSD #1 Athletic Director, said it has helped Dr. Webb continuously push the district forward. People trust him and believe he is the right person to lead the district. “Being a local and graduating from here really helps your school district and community,” Tripp said. “We’re comfortable going to him with any kind of problems. That speaks volumes for him.” As superintendent, Dr. Webb has fostered a positive culture where students and staff are excited to come to school each day. The district emphasizes a whole child approach to education, where success isn’t measured by a score on a standardized assessment. At Goreville CUSD #1, extracurricular activities are a major focus. The district has added 15 new sports and club teams throughout Dr. Webb’s career to enhance the overall student experience. “We believe that 100 percent of students should be involved in an extracurricular activity,” Dr. Webb said. “It’s a team-building experience that gives students something to look forward to and be more engaged in school.”

Dr. Webb also prides himself on interacting with students and staff on a regular basis. Most mornings it’s common to find him in the schools giving students high-fives, rather than behind his desk in the administrative office across the street. “He comes into the gym every morning and he interacts with the students and makes them feel welcome in the school,” says Joyce Maze, a paraprofessional at Goreville High School. “He also likes to welcome the staff and talk with everyone. I think it’s great that he takes that much

interest in his staff and students.” Pushing theDistrict Forward

Years of building trust and relationships with the community paid dividends when the COVID-19 pandemic forced educators to rethink and

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7 LM Nov./Dec. 2021