Vote Joanna Lago for D102 School Board:

An Educator’s Expertise, a Community’s Future

Why I'm Running

My Vision and Promise to District 102

I’m running for the District 102 School Board to bring my educational expertise home to the families of our community. As an elementary school principal, I’ve experienced firsthand what it takes to design effective systems, maintain strong structures, and propel a district forward.

As your Board Member, I’ll act as a collaborative partner in accountability—asking thoughtful questions, listening to the community, and serving every resident with fairness and integrity.

– Joanna Lago

District 102

Key Priorities

Plan for the Future of D102

Proactively address challenges & opportunities to secure a strong foundation for the next generation.

Boost Student Achievement

Focus on improving outcomes for all students, with an emphasis on high quality curriculum.

Implement the Strategic Plan

Ensure the district’s vision is effectively carried out to achieve long-term success.

Maintain Fiscal Responsibility

Prioritize transparent and efficient use of resources to benefit students and taxpayers alike.

Joanna's Qualifications

LaGrange Park Resident

Proud resident since 2015 with husband Felipe Lago and two sons at Forest Road, Lucas (4th grade) and Lorenzo (1st grade).

Award-Winning Educator

Former reading teacher in Chicago Public Schools and Butler Junior High (District 53), Golden Apple Award finalist for Teaching Excellence (2007–2017).

Experienced Principal

Serving as principal of Sherlock Elementary (Cicero School District 99) since 2018.

Pushed Sherlock, a PreK–6th grade school with 590 students, to achieve “Commendable” status on the Illinois State School Report Card
Increased Sherlock’s school rating to “Well-Organized” on University of Chicago’s Illinois 5Essentials Survey
Established the District’s largest Dual Language program as roughly two-thirds of the school population grounded on best practices in biliteracy, biculturalism, and bilingualism
Shifted the staff to incorporate best practices in Science of Reading through extensive knowledge as LETRs-trained leader

Leader in Literacy

I have attended national conferences on Dual Language and the Science of Reading, serve on the Dual Language Literacy Leadership Committee in District 99, and hold Master’s degrees in English as a Second Language and Curriculum and Instruction.

Active D102 Advocate

Member of the Parent Advisory Committee, championing safety updates and reading curriculum improvements. Felipe Lago contributes to the district as Chair of Diversity for Forest Road PTO, a member of the Committee for Equity and Minority Achievement (CEMA), and organizer of the 2025 Multicultural Night.