Des Plaines Principal Honored with Prestigious Golden Apple Award

DES PLAINES, IL — A local school administrator was last week named one of a pair of winners of a prestigious statewide education award.

Lisa Carlos, of Plainfield Elementary School in Des Plaines Consolidated School District 62, was awarded the 2024 Golden Apple Award for Excellence in Leadership, which is given annually to outstanding school leaders.

Carlos, who has been principal of Plainfield since 2018, and Brian Kelly, principal of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. College Prep High School in Chicago, were selected from among more than 100 nominations of leaders of elementary, middle and high schools.

Winners receive $5,000 for themselves and $5,000 for their school to spend on a project of their choosing.

During her time as principal at Plainfield, Carlos has helped implement standards-based grading and introduce new methodologies, supported more professional development for staff. She has also led improvements to the school's English language learner and bilingual programs, according to Golden Apple.

“Lisa Bucciarelli-Carlos has navigated the ever-evolving educational landscape while consistently delivering exceptional leadership that fosters an environment of high achievement and growth in their school,” said Alicia Winckler, CEO of Golden Apple. “We are grateful for their dedication to cultivating the next generation of thriving Illinois students."

District 62 Superintendent of Schools Michael Amadei said Carlos truly deserved the award.

“Her unwavering commitment to student success, her genuine care for the staff and families of Plainfield and her ability to foster a kind, caring and thriving learning environment are truly remarkable," Amadei said in a statement.

Carlos started her career teaching Spanish at Brother Rice High School in Chicago nearly three decades ago.

She then worked for Hinsdale Central High School for 14 years, eventually becoming the district's Department Chair of World Language and English Language Learners. She then became a principal in Chicago Public Schools before taking her current job in the northwest suburbs.

According to Golden Apple representatives, Carlos has also been a presenter and panelist at educational forums and has been published in various academic and professional outlets.

According to Golden Apple representatives, Carlos has been a presenter and panelist at educational forums and has been published in various academic and professional outlets.

Carlos said she was "beyond honored" to receive a Golden Apple.

“This award is a testament to the incredible work of our staff, students and families as well as our community," Carlos said in a statement. "It is through this collaboration and genuine partnership that we have created a special place to learn here at Plainfield Elementary School.”

Earlier: Principal At Des Plaines School Named Golden Apple Finalist