Old Quarry Principal Named Middle School Principal Of Year By IPA

LEMONT, IL — Joe Sweeney, Principal of Old Quarry Middle School in Lemont-Bromberek School District 113A, has been honored with the Illinois Principal Association’s Middle School Principal of the Year Award for the South Cook region, according to a news release from the District.

This annual award recognizes outstanding middle school leaders who have made exemplary contributions to the profession and are committed to providing high-quality learning opportunities for students, the District said.

Dr. Sweeney has served as principal of Old Quarry Middle School since 2019. His leadership has been instrumental in fostering a positive school environment, ensuring high student morale, and advancing student achievement, according to the District.

Under his guidance, Old Quarry Middle School was recognized as a nationally acclaimed “School to Watch” in his first year as principal, and was recently redesignated with the honor.

"Joe’s leadership has had a transformative effect on our school, our staff, and our students,” said Dr. Courtney Orzel, Superintendent of Lemont-Bromberek School District 113A. "His commitment to fostering a positive school climate, his creativity in bringing about positive change, and his ability to collaborate with staff and the community, make him a true asset to our district. We are incredibly proud of him and everyone at Old Quarry Middle School for receiving this well-deserved recognition."

The District said Sweeney’s success can be attributed to his collaborative approach, his active involvement in the school and community, and his focus on building strong relationships with both staff and the OQMS community.

"He consistently works with teachers and staff to improve the educational program, enhance student achievement, and create a culture of continuous improvement. His proactive leadership and forward-thinking problem-solving skills have made him a respected leader in the educational community in SD113A and in the larger field of education," according to the District's news release.

“This award is not my award- it is our award and is a recognition of our staff, students and community at Old Quarry Middle School. It is truly a privilege to lead with them by my side every day, and I’m so proud of everyone who makes Old Quarry the success that it is," Sweeney said.