McHenry Times

The Community High School Distrcit 155 Board of Education recognized three staff members at its Nov. 15 meeting.

Sarah Dunker, a World Studies teacher at Prairie Ridge High School, was nominated for teacher of the month by one of her students. The student said that she makes learning about the world fun and feels her support both inside and out of the classroom. She was named teacher of the month by Radio Station 105.5 and Home State Bank.

Josh Norton is a science teacher at Cary-Grove High School. The U.S. Navy recently honored Norton with the impact influencer award. A 2018 graduate nominated the teacher for integrating his lessons with future skills used in careers. The student cited Norton’s teachings as a reason for his success in the Navy today.

The final staff member recognized by the board was Dave Shutter who is the dean at Crystal Lake Central High School. He was named Dean of the Year by the Illinois State Dean’s Association. He has been the dean for 22 years at Crystal Lake. He focuses on creating a safe and welcoming learning environment and making sure he builds relationships with the staff and students. He won this award for the first time in 2012.

“You used to give out detentions for chewing gum, and now it's changed so much," Shutter said when asked how thing have changed since the last time he was honored. "I love giving out referrals for teamwork and integrity and perseverance and just seeing these kids just grow up to be great kids, and seeing their kids now in my office for positive things. So it's great.”

In other business, the board voted to hire five people into the district.

The board will meet again at 7 p.m. on Dec. 13 at Crystal Lake South High School at 1200 South McHenry Ave. in Crystal Lake.