At the Oak Lawn-Hometown School District 123 Board of Education meeting on June 20, 2023, the Board of Education approved Mrs. Suzanne Amra as the new principal of Sward Elementary School. She will begin her role in the upcoming academic year.
With 16 years of experience in the field of education, Suzanne brings a rich blend of knowledge, practical experience, and leadership insight to her new role at Sward Elementary. Suzanne completed her undergraduate degree at Governors State University and began her professional journey as an English teacher. Her commitment to education saw her rise to the position of English Department Chair, and during this period, she also pursued a master's degree in Educational Leadership from Concordia University.
Suzanne's extensive experience includes nine years of teaching in both public and private schools before transitioning into administrative roles. As Assistant Principal at Peck Elementary School, she spearheaded the institution to become the nation's first STEM-certified public elementary school. Thanks to her instrumental role in the Chicago Science Leadership Initiative Board, Suzanne also ensured Peck served as a STEM demonstration school for the City of Chicago.
Her leadership at Peck was pivotal in securing grants for technology purchase and maker space construction, contributing significantly to student innovation and global competitiveness. Following her tenure at Peck, Suzanne served as Assistant Principal at Liberty School in Orland School District 135, where she excelled in implementing distinguished practices in social-emotional learning, trauma-informed education, and restorative justice.
Currently serving as the South-Cook Region Legislative Chair for the Illinois Principals Association, Suzanne's commitment to community and educational excellence continues.
On a personal note, Suzanne is a proud lifelong resident of Chicago's Southside. She loves spending quality time with her husband and their four children. An avid traveler and beach lover, Suzanne cherishes time spent with her family when away from her responsibilities as a school administrator.
"We are thrilled to welcome Mrs. Amra to Sward Elementary," said Dr. Paul Enderle, Superintendent. "We are confident that her rich background, leadership acumen, and innovative approach will continue to build on the success of Sward School and provide our students with the skills and experiences needed to prepare today's learners for tomorrow's world."
The Oak Lawn-Hometown School District 123 learning community extends a warm welcome to Suzanne Amra, and we look forward to her contributing her impressive skills and extensive experience to Sward Elementary's ongoing success.