LM Jan 2018

Center, Superintendent Dr. Constance Collins; at left, 6th grade student Tumi Ademola and at right, her mother Bridgette.

By Heather Bennett Public Relations Officer Round Lake Area Schools CUSD 116 Turnaroundof RoundLakeschools nothingshort of amazing

Summer had come to a close and 930 refreshed staff from Round Lake Area Schools CUSD 116 in Northeastern Illinois flowed into the gym at Round Lake High School. There was a vibe in the air, something different from in years past. Following exuberant performances by students and staff, Superintendent Dr. Constance Collins approached the microphone for her welcome back speech. Her message was filled with an unending list of extraordinary accomplishments. Two special bullet points were left for last… Round Lake Area Schools is a district that has experienced its fair share of challenges over the years, yet has overcome them all. “We Rise Up at RLAS-116! Nothing can keep us down!” chanted Collins. Years of hard work toward an aggressive strategic plan have led us to two monumental

achievements; increased four-year graduation rate and achieving the vision of becoming a nationally top-ranked school district. A school that experienced graduation rates as low as 71 percent over the last decade now boasts that 90 percent of its students would cross that stage at year end! U.S. News & World Report named Round Lake High School one of the Best High Schools in Illinois and the Nation—the Silver Medal designation! How is it possible for a school to turn such a large ship in a short period of time? Members of the Round Lake High School team are proud to tell this story. “I wish I could say that there was one magic idea or initiative that moved our school in a positive direction,” said Dr. Donn Mendoza, Deputy Superintendent and former RLHS Principal. “It’s a combination of many efforts, including

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