Board Of Ed Appoints O'Neill's New Assistant Principal

DOWNERS GROVE, IL — The Downers Grove Grade School District 58 Board of Education voted to approve Bryant Cobo as the assistant principal of O'Neill Middle School, effective immediately.

Cobo most recently served as the dean of students for Washington Middle School in West Aurora School District 129. As dean, he worked with students, staff and families to develop behavior guidelines and collaborated with teachers to create classroom management strategies and implement social-emotional learning and classroom technology, the District said on its website.

O'Neill Principal Matt Durbala said Cobo stood out during what he called a very competitive interview process.

"The interview team was especially impressed by his variety of experiences; enthusiasm; strong relationships with students, staff and families; and his eagerness to expand his leadership abilities," Durbala said. "We look forward to welcoming Mr. Cobo to the O'Neill team!"

Prior to his work at Washington, Cobo was a Spanish teacher in Naperville and Mount Prospect for nine years. He earned a bachelor's degree in Spanish language and literature from Northern Illinois University and a master's degree in educational leadership from North Central College, the website said.

"O’Neill Middle School has a caring community culture and a strong focus on learning, and I’m excited to become a part of the team," Cobo said. "I look forward to meeting our O’Neill students, staff and families, and working together throughout this school year!"