The Oak Lawn-Hometown District 123 lost a member of its family recently, former principal of Sward Elementary School Mrs. Lori Gloodt. Mrs. Gloodt served as Principal at Sward Elementary School in School District 123 from 1991 until she retired in 2017. Her leadership influence helped create a culture of high expectations at Sward School and contributed greatly to numerous School District 123 initiatives. Under Mrs. Gloodt’s leadership the Sward School motto of “Accomplishment and Pride” was established.
“Over a 26-year period in District 123 Mrs. Gloodt was a beloved friend to many, a thoughtful educator, an exceptional teammate, and a well-respected colleague. She brought out the best in others and made a difference in the lives of countless people in various ways,” said Superintendent Dr. Paul Enderle
During her time in District 123, Mrs. Gloodt made the effort to sustain and grow the Sward School PTA in accordance to the National PTA standards, she received the State of Illinois 2012 recognition for achievement based on the most rigorous standards of No Child Left Behind (NCLB). Mrs. Gloodt was also able to attend the Harvard University Principal Center and learn alongside school leaders from around the world and was celebrated for completing the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards Certification Program for Principals and was 1 of 49 Illinois principals selected to participate in the program, and 1 of only 10 Illinois Principals to complete the program, a program that only 152 principals nationwide completed.
She is survived by her husband Scott and three children. Mrs. Gloodt will be greatly missed.