Mr. tim mckenna

With a deep-rooted commitment to our school's success, I look forward as principal to continuing to foster an environment where students feel safe and excited about learning, staff members thrive professionally and collaborate effectively, and families take pride in being part of our community.

I hold a Bachelor of Science in physical education from Carroll University and a Master of Education in school leadership from Concordia University. My professional journey began as a physical education teacher at the elementary and middle school levels. I then served as the dean of students at Jewel and Jefferson middle schools, where I focused on managing student conflicts through restorative practices. Since 2016, I have had the privilege of serving as the assistant principal of operations at Jewel Middle School, leading initiatives in crisis management, staff evaluations, and building safety.

Outside of work, I have been happily married for over 20 years and am the proud parent of two children. My family enjoys bike rides together and we are enthusiastic supporters of Chicago's sports teams.

I am thrilled to continue this journey with the Jewel community and look forward to working together to achieve great things.

MRs. lauren rymarz

I am excited to continue my professional journey within School District 129 as the assistant principal of operations at Jewel Middle School. Previously, I served as dean of students.

My career in education began at West Aurora High School, where I taught social studies. During my time there, I initiated and developed an Advanced Placement® history course, served as head badminton coach, and led a professional learning community. I am grateful for the mentorship and opportunities I received during my tenure at West.

I look forward to collaborating with the staff and students at Jewel Middle School to make this the best year yet!
 

MRs. KIM LUNDBERG

I am excited for the opportunity to continue my journey in School District 129 as the assistant principal of teaching and learning at Jewel Middle School!

I have spent the past 22 years at Jewel, serving in various capacities such as instructional resident, reading specialist, and physical education teacher. In addition to my responsibilities in the classroom, I was an active member of the school’s building leadership team, mentored new teachers, and led the eighth-grade team in implementing the Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) framework, designed to provide targeted student support.

I began my career as a physical education teacher at Glenbard North High School. 

I hold a Bachelor of Arts in education from Illinois State University, a Master of Arts in educational Leadership from Aurora University, and a Master of Arts in reading and literacy from Benedictine University.

I look forward to embracing the curiosity, complexity, and joy of learning with our students and staff!

MR. PETE LINDEN

As a proud 2012 graduate of West Aurora High School, I am eager to continue my professional journey as dean of students at Jewel Middle School.

Having served as a fifth-grade sheltered/blended teacher at Greenman Elementary School since August 2018, I specialized in delivering instruction aligned with English development standards, ensuring educational accessibility for a diverse student body. Since August 2020, I have also served as a building ambassador, supporting the integration of Challenging Learning components into our school's improvement plan and guiding fellow educators in their application.

In February 2022, I became a member of the district’s equity leadership team, where I contribute to analyzing systems to enhance minority representation and promote an equity-focused perspective. I hold a Bachelor of Arts in elementary education and a Master of Arts in educational leadership, both earned from Aurora University.