Schools
Stagg’s Augustyniak named 2025 South Cook Assistant Principal of the Year
Instructional leader accelerates learning for Chargers
Amos Alonzo Stagg High School Associate Principal of Instruction Dr. Michelle Augustyniak was recently named the 2025 South Cook Assistant Principal of the Year by the Illinois Principals Association (IPA). She will be formally recognized with a plaque at the Education Leaders annual conference.
Dr. Augustyniak has served as Stagg’s Associate Principal for Instruction since 2021. Prior to her current role, she spent one year as Director of Guidance at Sandburg High School. She also served the Charger school community as division chair for PE, Health, and Driver Education from 2014 until 2020. Before joining District 230, she spent a decade at Indian Prairie School District as a teacher, coach, and department chair.
Stagg Principal Eric Olsen says, “Dr. Augustyniak has been the primary instructional leader within our school, empowering administrators, teachers, and students to accelerate learning by utilizing a collaborative leadership model. She works with staff to develop holistic menus of academic and social-emotional supports for students.”
Assistant Superintendent of Instructional Services Dr. Anita Huffman highlighted the measurable impact of her work. “Dr. Augustyniak is a true instructional leader whose impact is felt across her school, district, and the profession. Her work building Professional Learning Communities centered on teacher growth directly improved student outcomes, driving a 6% increase in Freshmen On Track in one year and placing over 95% of students on track for success,” she said.
Charles Ovando, Assistant Superintendent for Student Support and Development, echoed similar sentiments, saying, “Dr. Augustyniak's decision-making is driven by putting students first, ensuring staff are supported and empowered to meet students’ needs. She balances an ability to articulate, understand, and carry out a school improvement vision with attention to detail and logistics to bring them to life.”
Michelle earned her bachelor’s degree from Illinois State University and a master’s and doctorate in Educational Leadership from the University of St. Francis. Her research focused on the work of instructional leaders and how personal characteristics impact the collective efficacy of the teams with which they work.
