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"I was inspired to return to my alma mater to give back to the community that played a significant role in shaping and guiding me toward my career. I am passionate about supporting and contributing to the development of future students, just as I was supported during my time there. One of my fondest memories is having the opportunity to attend the same high school that my father did. He strongly believed in the value of a good education, and that belief inspired me."
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"Crete-Monee provided me with a well-rounded experience, balancing academics, sports, and extracurricular activities. This environment fostered a deep love for learning and motivated me to pursue higher education."
Kelly Chesta, ELC Director, Class of 1991
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"My greatest memory as a student at Crete-Monee was being part of the Ignition Club during my senior year of high school. I loved working in the community and mentoring the freshman class. This experience sparked my love and care for student success, which is one of the main reasons I decided to pursue a career in education."
Kaitlyn Murphy, Monee Elementary 1st Grade Teacher, Class of 2020
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"My fondest memory as a student comes from the English department in high school. Mrs. Kuh was my first-period teacher when I transferred from Marian Catholic. Her welcoming spirit and genuinely kind nature made adjusting to the new environment easier. Additionally, Ms. W always brought a smile to my face during my senior year. She would often tell me how much of a mistake Marian Catholic made by letting me transfer out, and she even told my mother that I was the 'steal' of Marian Catholic."
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"Hearing things like that made me feel that I finally had teachers in my corner who genuinely cared about what I was going through and wanted to see me succeed. I have a deep respect and love for every one of the teachers who had such an incredible impact on my life."
Michael Friel, Payroll Specialist, Class of 2017
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"One of my many memories as a student is from third grade. I struggled with social studies but was working hard to improve my grades. One morning, my teacher, Mrs. Kennedy, called me into class before the other students. She showed me my improved grade and was so proud of my effort. This moment shaped the teacher I am today, as I believe all students are capable of success when given support and constructive feedback."
Jennifer Smith, Special Education Teacher, Class of 2003
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"My fondest memories of District 201-U include the 'Fun Fair' at Crete Elementary, the Swing Choir at Hubbard Trail under the direction of Mrs. Judy Neimeyer, and the spring shows we presented each year. I also enjoyed participating in various high school clubs, including the Foreign Language Club, Afro-American Club/Gospel Choir, and SADD. Additionally, I participated in Track and Field and loved being part of our school community. Perhaps the funniest memories are of the pep rallies in the dome—so much fun! I built lifelong relationships there, including the one I have with my husband (Class of '90)."
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"These experiences gave me the confidence and determination to achieve my life goals. Although I did not become a teacher immediately after college, I pursued other successful opportunities that allowed me to slow down over the last three years and return to give back. Before returning to Crete-Monee, I owned two businesses (a boutique bakery and a real estate firm) and worked in healthcare shortly after college. Now, 33 years later, I’m here to give back in a major way, if I can."
Tara Pugh, Talala Elementary 4th Grade Teacher, Class of 1992
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"Returning to my alma mater, Crete-Monee feels like completing a full circle in a journey rooted in legacy and community. This district played a pivotal role in shaping who I am today, and now, as a parent with a child thriving here, I’m witnessing firsthand the impact of being actively involved in his education. By co-teaching and connecting directly with his teachers, I’m ensuring that he will excel academically, knowing his success is something we deeply value as a family."
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"Beyond my personal connection, I’ve always had a deep passion for empowering and guiding youth—a passion that has been with me since childhood. Giving back to the district that invested so much in me through track, orchestra, and academic learning feels the perfect way to honor that legacy while inspiring the next generation to dream big and achieve even more."
Mia Vanarsdale, Cadre Teacher, Class of 1995
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"As a K-12 student, I attended Hickory Elementary (now CSK), Balmoral Elementary, Hubbard Trail Junior High (now ELC), and CMHS. I was fortunate to have incredible teachers and principals at each of these schools who inspired me to make school a place where children are excited to learn. My experiences helped shape the person I am today, and the leaders who taught me paved the way for my teaching career, which began in 1992 at my alma mater. I’m also proud to have had my three children attend the district."
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"My fondest memories are of the friends and teachers who made me love coming to school each day. I was very active in the music program, especially enjoying band trips to major competitions. My best friend and I played clarinet in band, orchestra, and marching band, and I also played piano in the jazz band. Music has always been an important part of my life, starting in 7th grade, and it remains my calming force in my office each day. I was fortunate to have many teachers who made learning a joyous experience, and I often remind myself (as an educator) that it was these caring adults who inspired my love for learning. As a result, in my own career, I strive each day to help students and fellow staff members feel happy and excited to come to school, and I work hard to make sure they know that there are people here who care about them and are ready to help however they can."
Shannon Wentzel-Bruns, IB Coordinator, Class of 1987
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