PMSA Weekly Update
September 22, 2023
Ms. Chiganos is excited to continue leading with faculty, staff and students this year at PMSA as the interim principal for SY24. Her work in education began at Morton West High School in Berwyn, where she was a full-time English teacher for 12 years. She arrived at PMSA in 2013, where she served as a department chair for English, Social Studies, World Language, and Wellness over several years. She then transitioned into the role of Director of Innovation to help facilitate the opening of the Class of 2024 Math and Science cohorts at Proviso East and West. Returning to PMSA, Ms. Chiganos has served as a Grade Level Principal for the past two years. In her new role, Ms. Chiganos will focus on utilizing teacher talent to improve school wide goals. This includes providing opportunities for teachers to lead Professional Learning Community (PLC) meetings during late start days and other professional sessions; ensuring teacher tech experts are identified and can assist colleagues; and utilizing teacher surveys to identify target areas where teachers feel they need extra support, then sharing the results to determine which teachers would be interested in championing those target areas. Collective efficacy and teacher collaboration are key this year!
As we develop our plan to raise SAT scores this year using fall assessment data from each grade level, we will continue to focus on Freshmen on Track, our Graduation Rate, student attendance, and most importantly, the social and emotional well-being of ALL of our students. In addition, we would love to see more parent involvement this year, so please make sure to set up your parent account on the Power School Parent Portal and consider joining our Parent Teacher Organization (PTO) and/or Parent Advisory Committee (PAC). Lastly, please check our website homepage calendar for all academic, performance, and athletic events so you can come out and support your student and our school. We look forward to seeing you soon on campus!
Sincerely,
Cristin Chiganos
Meet Our Assistant Principal of Student Success
Welcome back PMSA families!
I am looking forward to an exciting school year. I will continue to serve and support our students. My responsibilities include:
- Student Discipline
- SPED Services
- Building Operations
Dr. Walker is a devoted administrator with an extensive career history in high-performing and urban school districts. He is in his third year as AP of Student Success at Proviso Math and Science Academy. From a holistic perspective, he is eager to provide enriching opportunities for diverse learners, promote higher education, and realize goals and individual potential. His knowledge allows him to bring keen awareness and familiarity with social justice and equity within public schools.
Dr. Shaylon Walker
Meet Our New Assistant Principal of Instruction
I am excited to return back to Proviso Math and Science Academy! Education is my passion, and I have 12 years of professional experience in education. I was a proud member of the English department from 2012-2022. As a member of the leadership team, I am passionate about working with all stakeholders to achieve excellence in education. I love the work that I do with and for students. I am dedicated to making sure that PMSA continues to provide a rigorous and culturally relevant curriculum. I believe that the purpose of education is to provide insight, give knowledge, and provide enrichment.
I will always be a lifelong learner! I currently have a Bachelor of Arts degree in English from Southern Illinois University, Carbondale, a Master of Education degree in Secondary English Education from DePaul University, and a Master of Arts in Principal Preparation from Concordia University. I am currently working to obtain my Doctorate degree in Curriculum and Instruction from DePaul University.
Ms. Erin Mason
Back to school night was a success. We were excited to have parents/guardians in the school building celebrating the beginning of a new school year and meeting their student's teachers and support staff. Parents/guardians were able to visit each of their child's classes to learn about the course content, receive an overview of the course expectations, and understand how students in the course will be evaluated and assessed. Counselors, the school librarian, and a host of other vendors were available for questions.
Mrs. Foti
Q: What has been your most memorable moment while working here at PMSA?
A: When my daughter passed away, I was out of school for a while. When I returned, I walked into my classroom and there were cards hanging up around the room from my students.
Q: After you retire in four years, what will you miss the most about PMSA?
A: I will miss interacting with students and seeing them grow.
Q: What is something interesting about yourself that you want to share?
A: I am the author of three books (two mystery). I just completed my third book after writing it for 20 years. I have received numerous awards and great reviews. I was featured on the cover of the Chicago Tribune and The New York Times to showcase my book, Storm in the Land of Rain. For a while, it was on the #1 book list in Australia.
Q: If you could teach any book, what would it be?
A: Brave New World
Mr. Mendoza
Q: What was your inspiration to become a teacher?
A: My younger sister inspired me to become a teacher.
Q: What are you looking forward to the most about becoming a teacher?
A: I am looking forward to bringing joy into teaching for my students.
Q: What have you learned while training here at PMSA?
A: I have learned that I have to be prepared, always be on your toes, and to have self-advocacy.
Q: If you could teach any book, what would it be?
A: I would love to be able to teach The Stranger.
Dates To Remember:
PMSA's Latin Cultural Program will be 10.26.23 @ 6:30pm in the auditorium
in celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month (9/15/23 - 10/15/23).
The 2023 theme of Hispanic Heritage Month is “Latinos: Driving Prosperity, Power and Progress in America,” shining a spotlight on the remarkable strides made by the Hispanic community in economics, politics and societal advancement.
Raza Unidos, one of PMSA's many extra-curricular clubs and sponsored first semester by Mr. Brown, is hosting the program, and will feature dancing, singing, and culturally significant performances by our students.
Homecoming Dates:
Homecoming Pep Rally- 10/13/23
Homecoming Dance- 10/14/23
