Principal: Missing Nazareth Teacher 'Loved By Students'

It's been a sad day for school officials at in La Grange Park, said Principal Deborah Tracy Friday.

News that teacher John Michalek, who taught social studies at the school for 35 years, is on Thursday came as a shock.

"He had such a passion for education," Tracy said. "He loved teaching young people and was an excellent role model."

In addition to teaching social studies, Michalek also served as chair of the social studies department, was a coach and moderated many clubs and extracurricular activities for students over the years, she said.

Police received a 911 call from the lake Thursday afternoon that . According to the Lake County Sheriff's Department, Michalek and a friend were on the boat and decided to go for a swim. After being in the water, Michalek was unable to get back into the boat and disappeared underwater. His friend attempted to jump in the water and search for him and had to be rescued by a passing boat, according to NBC5 News.

Tracy said Michalek owned a lake house in Antioch that he loved to go to and relax.

"He loved that lake and his pontoon," she said. "He was planning to move to a part-time position next year."

Tracy said the school was contemplating sending out an email to Nazareth families this weekend, but they do not have much information yet. The school has been getting calls from concerned students who are asking for information and details about a memorial service, as well as a way to pay tribute to a teacher who was liked by all.

"We'll be doing something to pay [our] respect," Tracy said. "He will be greatly missed."

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