LM Summer 2025

Education Elevat g

Heidbreder ... cont’d. referendum in 2018 to exceed its debt limit — a measure that required a super majority vote. In addition to new classrooms and an additional gymnasium, the project included extensive renovations across the district, along with expanded space dedicated to STEM education— emphasizing career exploration—and enhanced art programs for students in grades K–8. “Before the referendum, we had art on a cart — no dedicated space,” Heidbreder said. “We now have dedicated art rooms, including one equipped with a kiln, and we’ve introduced a career-exploration program that allows students to explore fields such as dentistry, coding, fashion, communications, and more. Providing exposure to these diverse career paths has greatly enriched our students’ educational experience.” Strengthening regional and community partnerships has also been a priority for Heidbreder. Central School District 51 participates in a regional network of schools that collaborate on reunification drills and actions to take if there is a catastrophic event. The collaboration is among a number of school safety upgrades at Central School District 51, including additional security cameras, CrisisGo emergency response tools and RAPTOR school safety software. In the community, Heidbreder has helped forge strong relationships with business leaders, community groups and with Washington Community High School. For example, a group of mothers approached him about creating an annual fundraising event, known as the Trojan Gala, that has raised over $150,000. The dollars have been used to fund modules for STEM, 3D printers, other technology equipment and even a scholarship. A partnership with the high school has enabled students to gain hands-on teaching experience through the cooperative education program. “We are truly fortunate to have outstanding students, supportive families, dedicated teachers and staff, committed administrators and board members, a strong PTO, and a caring community—all deeply invested in the success of our students,” Heidbreder said. On the personnel side, the district has also been able to add two counselors, two social workers, a curriculum director and a special education director during Heidbreder’s tenure. Lastly, outside of the district, Heidbreder is a graduate of the IASA School for Advanced Leadership, CIV representative on Vision 2030 and serves on the IASA-ISBE Advisory Committee.

Guseman ... cont’d.

participated, earning 0.25 credits per 60 hours of approved work experience per semester, up to 0.5 credits total. “Will County is growing, and it was important to recognize that we need to find ways to keep our young people here so we have a workforce that can carry us into the future,” Dr. Guseman said. The internship program expanded last summer to include five additional high schools in Will County. As a result, 74 students in the region enrolled — in careers such as marketing, engineering, childcare, automotive repair, technology, healthcare, and governmental relations. Interest in summer 2025 has only expanded. “We have gone from local businesses receiving 350 applications to over 1,200,” Dr. Guseman said. “Our employers now have an opportunity to select students they feel are the best fit. And then for our students, we’re providing real-world experience and authentic application of the skills.” By building relationships and connections with community partners, Dr. Guseman noted there have been tangible benefits to the school district and community. Partnerships with multiple community groups, for example, has led to more cultural events for students to take advantage of. “Leveraging relationships and building partnerships will lead to positive experiences for students,” Dr. Guseman said. “As superintendent, I serve on multiple community boards, like the YMCA and Kiwanis, because it winds up being the starting point of creating an additional opportunity for students.”

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Nominate Someone? Contact Jason Nevel at jnevel@iasaedu.org

21 LM Summer 2025