Story posted Wednesday, January 27, 2010
Dist. 34 Chief Shares Passion For Books
By DENISE FLEISCHER Lifestyle Editor
Dr. Gerald Hill, superintendent of Glenview School Dist. 34, has a passion for learning, a commitment to excellence and the skill to build capacity in people and organizations.
He also has 60 versions of the book "A Night Before Christmas."
"I've always collected children's books and became interested collecting different versions of 'The Night Before Christmas' when I first purchased the Cajun version in New Orleans in the late 1980's," Dr. Hill explained.
Motivating parents to read more is natural for Dr. Hill. He recommends parents find a good fiction or non-fiction book and read it to or with their child.
"For young children, picture books are great. They enjoy the words, the pictures, and the special time with the adult who is reading the story," said Dr. Hill.
Yes, he does find the genre novels, like Harry Potter, a plus when it comes to encouraging children to read.
"Harry Potter novels are great in that they have a more universal appeal," he said. "Rowling's stories and characters capture the imagination of a large cross section of readers."
While he was in line at the Borders on Michigan Avenue, when author J.K. Rowling was signing copies of her books about a year ago, Dr. Hill noticed that boys and girls of all ages were eagerly awaiting her autograph. Children will read what they love.
When young readers have difficulty reading and are struggling through class, he suggests that parents be patient.
"Read regularly with them for fun, and work closely with the teachers to support the children at home, as well as at school," he said.
Dr. Hill taught fourth through sixth grade for seven years in Minnesota and Texas and enjoyed seeing students become excited about learning.
"I was especially proud, in Texas, when we, as a school team, created a challenging, focused and dynamic learning environment for all students," he said.
Does he prefer his administrative duties to actual teaching?
"In education, administration is still focused on learning, it's just that the learners are the adults in the system, who are continually learning how to become better teachers of children," said Dr. Hill.
He admits that what he misses the most about teaching are the relationships with students and their parents.
"Teaching is a very challenging and rewarding profession," he said.
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