New Principal Named for Hawthorn School of Dual Language

Hawthorn School of Dual Language will have a new principal beginning this summer.

Dr. James Tohme will begin his role on July 1 when he takes over for Jim Kallieris, who has taken a position in North Shore District 112. Tohme, whose contract was approved May 24 by the District 73 School Board, comes to Hawthorn from Schaumburg School District 54, where he served as an elementary school principal for both a Dual Language program as well as a traditional school.

Over his past 10 years in Schaumburg, he has been instrumental in leading two under-performing schools to subsequently achieve Adequate Yearly Progress as mandated by the federal No Child Left Behind legislation.

Prior to his time in Schaumburg, Tohme spent 11 years in Carpentersville District 300 where he served as a teacher, assistant principal and principal.

“We are excited that James will be joining our Hawthorn team,” Superintendent Nick Brown said. “In addition to his solid education and leadership experience, he brings positive expectations that each and every child can and will succeed.”

“It is great to be part of a school where the goal is for all students to become bilingual and biliterate in English and Spanish as well as have a growing appreciation for different cultures,” Tohme said. “I am excited to be part of the Hawthorn community. I am looking forward to getting to know and work with the students, staff and parents at the Hawthorn School of Dual Language.”

Tohme holds his bachelor’s degree from Judson University and his master’s and doctorate degrees in Educational Leadership from Aurora University.