In the final episode of Season 3, hosts Cori and Steph sit down with Troy Buley, STEM Division Lead at Cary-Grove High School, for an insightful conversation that goes beyond the daily duties of a division leader. With 33 years in education, Troy reflects on how the role of leadership has evolved, the challenges and rewards of supporting a diverse team, and the importance of staying student-focused in a constantly changing educational landscape.

Packed with wisdom, humor, and heartfelt stories, this episode offers a meaningful close to the season and a tribute to the impact of experience, consistency, and connection in schools.

Guest: Stephanie Hatfield (School Librarian, Crystal Lake South High School)

Contact Information: CLS Library Website

Instagram: @cls_library_

Summary: In this episode of Teach in 10, we welcome Stephanie Hatfield, school librarian at Crystal Lake South High School, for a behind-the-scenes look at the dynamic and multifaceted role of a teacher librarian.

Stephanie shares her journey from English and theater teacher to librarian, highlighting how her love for reading and passion for helping students led her to this unique and impactful role. With more than a decade of experience in D155, Stephanie offers insights into the vibrant daily life of the library—from one-on-one research support and staff collaboration to creative programming like “Blind Date with a Book” and storytime with FLS students.

At the heart of her work is a commitment to creating a welcoming space where all students feel seen, supported, and inspired—whether they’re printing an assignment, escaping into a good book, or exploring new ideas.

This episode is a celebration of how school libraries embody D155’s core values of innovation, community, growth, and diversity. Tune in to hear how Stephanie’s passion transforms the library into the heartbeat of the school.

In this episode of Teach in 10, we sit down with Bob Chikos, a veteran special education teacher at Central High School in District 155. With 17 years in the district and a rich background working with adults with disabilities, Bob brings a unique blend of compassion, advocacy, and innovation to his role.

Bob walks us through a typical week — and spoiler alert, there's nothing "typical" about it. From co-teaching algebra to coaching the speech team, mentoring new teachers, contributing to statewide policy work, and streamlining IEP processes, Bob’s impact reaches far beyond the classroom. He shares how his passion for leadership and advocacy was shaped by grad school and great mentors, and how he uses humor, creativity, and empathy to foster student success.

You will not want to miss this episode as Bob's story serves as a powerful reminder of the many roles educators take on each day.

Guest: Matt Timmerman (Assistant Superintendent of Educational Services)Contact

Information:Email: mtimmerman@d155.org

X: @timms40Episode

Summary: In this episode of Teach in 10, Cori Schwarzrock and Stephanie Sukow welcome Matt Timmerman, Assistant Superintendent of Educational Services in District 155. Matt shares his unique journey from teacher and coach to his current administrative role, highlighting the importance of being open to new opportunities in education.

He offers an inside look at his daily responsibilities, from leading district-wide meetings and supporting curriculum development to managing partnerships and handling student services challenges. Matt also reflects on the evolving role of data in education and the value of collaboration across departments.

Tune in for an insightful conversation about the multifaceted role of an AP of Student Services and the dedication it takes to support student success.

In this episode of Teach in 10, hosts Cori Schwarzrock and Stephanie Sukow welcome Matt Koll, Assistant Principal of Student Services at Prairie Ridge High School. Matt shares his journey from teaching choir, AVID, and computer science at Crystal Lake South for 18 years to becoming an AP at Prairie Ridge. He reflects on his experiences as a theater manager, activities director, and yearbook advisor before stepping into leadership as a Humanities Division Leader and eventually Assistant Principal

.Matt offers a behind-the-scenes look at his day-to-day responsibilities, including supporting students through conversations with families, managing student services teams, overseeing testing, and ensuring effective SEL support. He discusses the evolving role of an AP, from summer school oversight to district-wide collaborations, and emphasizes his commitment to helping students grow academically, emotionally, and socially.

Tune in to hear Matt’s insights on the rewarding challenges of student services and his dedication to fostering student success across District 155.

In this episode of Teach in 10, Cori and Steph sit down with Katy Kline to explore the dynamic and ever-changing role of a high school counselor. Katy shares insights into her journey from English teacher to counselor, the relationships she builds with students and families, and the wide range of responsibilities she juggles throughout the school year.

From college and career planning to social-emotional support, IEP and 504 meetings, and the vital work counselors do in student seminars, Katy highlights the behind-the-scenes efforts that help students succeed. She also reflects on her experiences working in multiple D155 schools and the value of stepping into new roles.

Tune in for an inspiring look at the impact of school counselors and how their work connects to D155’s strategic plan and core values!

In this episode of Teach in Ten, Cori and Steph continue their A Day in the Life of... series by welcoming the legendary Donna Ganshaw, the administrative assistant to the athletic director at Cary-Grove High School. Donna shares her deep roots in District 155, from being a student to dedicating 24 years of service to the district. She gives insight into the dynamic nature of her role, the impact of athletics and extracurricular activities, and the relationships that have made her career so meaningful.

Guests: Dr. Steve Koch (Principal of Prairie Ridge High School)

Email: skoch@d155.org

Podcast Summary: In this debut episode of the new Teach in Ten series, A Day in the Life of..., hosts Cori and Steph welcome Steve Koch, a seasoned school principal, to explore the multifaceted role of school leadership. Steve takes listeners through his career path, sharing how he transitioned from a classroom teacher to principal, the mentors and moments that shaped his journey, and the passion that drives his work today.

This candid conversation delves into the highlights of Steve’s current role, from spearheading innovative curriculum initiatives to managing large-scale projects that enhance school facilities. He discusses the strategic balancing act of overseeing budgets and finances while ensuring the needs of students and staff are met. Steve also shares the excitement and challenges of working on school-wide initiatives, emphasizing the importance of fostering collaboration, equity, and a positive school culture.

Whether coordinating professional development for teachers, navigating unforeseen obstacles, or celebrating student successes, Steve’s day is anything but ordinary. His stories provide a deeper understanding of the impact principals have in shaping schools and creating environments where students thrive.

Join Cori and Steph as they explore how a day in the life of a principal is both dynamic and deeply rewarding—an inspiring listen for educators, aspiring leaders, and anyone curious about the vital work happening behind the scenes in schools.