Oak Lawn's Jacobson Is 'Next-Level' Principal Who 'Walks The Walk'

OAK LAWN, IL — Without community leaders, Oak Lawn wouldn’t hum along nearly as smoothly as it does. We’d miss their contributions in big and small ways.

Patch has partnered with T-Mobile to recognize these often unsung community leaders and celebrate their contributions.

This submission comes from Mary Annerino, Deborah Swanson, and James M. Soderstrom, Oak Lawn readers who nominated Dr. Michael Jacobson.

How do you know this community leader?

He is the principal at my local high school.

What does this community leader do?

He is the principal of Richards High School as well as the campus youth minister at Incarnation Parish.

Why do you believe the community leader should be recognized or honored?

"Dr. Jacobson's mission is to provide the youth of this community opportunities to connect and grow through positive and meaningful interactions," Annerino said. "He works behind the scenes to challenge existing obstacles to student involvement and is the first one there to celebrate their successes. The Richards High School and Incarnation Parish communities recognize Dr. Jacobson as someone who expects a lot from the students, as well as himself, and works tirelessly to create the type of environment that changes people's lives."

Added Swanson: "Dr. Jacobson is dedicated to providing our children with the best experience possible. He is a dedicated person who gives of his time freely to the parents and students of our school. He knows our students by name and is interested in their lives and their hopes and dreams. He encourages everyone to be the best version of themselves and helps to equip them with the skills and resources to achieve that. He also understands that while school is a place to learn, our students need a fun and safe place to be. He encourages the school to be both academically challenging and a fun place for the kids to be."

From Soderstrom: "He has helped develop a sincere sense of how the students in our building are vital pieces to the community and the community is vital to the success of the students."

What's one thing you want everyone to know about the community hero?

"Dr. Jacobson walks the walk," Annerino says. "He doesn't just wish for amazing opportunities for area teens, he makes them happen."

Swanson added: "Dr. Jacobson is a "next level" principal. He truly cares for Richards High School and all who are a part of it - staff, students, and parents. He cares about what Richards can contribute to Oak Lawn."

Finally this from Soderstrom: "Mr. Jacobson is always looking for ways to showcase our students in the community and our community to our students. If you want to get involved with our school community all you have to do is contact Mr. Jacobson."

This content is brought to our community in partnership with T-Mobile.

Know a community leader who deserves a shout-out?

Nominate them here.