Principal's Corner

Victor Wight

Hello Lancer Families!

I am thrilled to be starting my fourth year at Palombi Middle School, my first as Principal Sisi! This is my 27th year in education, and I have been in administration for 22 years, eight of which were as a dean of a large high school, three were as the director of student services of that same large high school, then I was a principal of a high school for four years, and a district director of language development for one of the largest high school districts in Illinois for three years. After three years in the district, I realized that District 41 was the district I had been looking for my entire career.  I have enjoyed working with all stakeholders:  students, teachers, staff, administration, board, and community members.  I am thrilled to move into the role of principal at Palombi, as I know the passion and dedication from the amazing staff will continue to support students, families, and the greater community.  

I am a lifelong learner.  I earned two Bachelor's Degrees from the University of Illinois, a Bachelor in the Art in the Teaching of Spanish and a Bachelor in the Art in the Teaching of French. I earned my Master of Science in Curriculum and Instruction from Northern Illinois University and then continued in my coursework for educational leadership. In my desire to support all students, specifically struggling learners, I took the required coursework in ESL, bilingual, and Licensed Behavioral Specialist I.  I was a classroom teacher in Spanish/French/math teacher for five years.  I also taught both math and ESL at Harper Community College.  Finally, I pursued additional certifications and coursework, so I could work with students and their families, making a larger impact at a younger age.

I have presented at national conferences on career pathway development and STEM course content. I co-authored an article entitled “Community Partnerships” for Tech & Learning, an online journal. Most recently I presented with District 41 administration and teachers at the Leader In Me national conference.

I am a transformational leader who leads by example, working with colleagues to identify change, create a vision, and work to implement the desired plan. I am approachable, dependable, and innovative. Those who know me well know they can go to me with any question or challenge and work toward a solution based on research and action. I believe success is achieved by all, knowing that the picture of success for individuals is very different.

I am dedicated to my family, having twins in sixth grade. I live in Arlington Heights, where I was raised. I enjoy Disney and spending time with my children. I enjoy reading the fantasy and science fiction genres.

I look forward to working with all stakeholders in my new role and welcome any communications at angela.sisi@district41.org.

Sincerely,

Angela Sisi