BY JENNIFER SIMMONS
Managing Editor

AFTER 23 years as a staple at Rochelle Township High School – first as a biology teacher and coach for football and track, then as a dean of students/assistant principal and finally a superintendent – Jamie Craven is embarking on a new chapter.
In June Craven resigned his position as superintendent for the high school district after announcing he had taken a position as superintendent for DeKalb School District #428 in DeKalb.
“It wasn’t an easy decision to make, but it [is easier] going knowing the people in place because the strength and core values [that make up this district] aren’t going to change,” Craven said. “I’m not worried about the future of RTHS because so many great people are in this organization.”
Craven said there are many things that make the Rochelle district unique and show that the board, administrative staff and faculty have worked together to make it the best environment for learning that it can.

“The culture and climate of this building, a school of 950, doesn’t have or have a need for a resource officer, we have a large bilingual population and our kids treat others respectfully, they treat our staff the same way,” Craven said. “We make decisions in what is in the best interest of our kids. We’ve always believed in making decisions in what is in the best interest of our kids and the district. I’m very proud of that.”
Change is curriculum is also something that Craven is proud to have been a part of while at RTHS and believes the school’s motto “Preparing Students for their Tomorrows” rings true.
“Over the last 10 years we’ve created an intervention for students who need additional support, we’ve started offering dual-credit, advanced placement and developed a strong relationship with Kishwaukee College,” Craven explained. “We ARE preparing students for their tomorrows. We are trying to create an opportunity for every student regardless of what the future holds for each student.”
Early in his career at RTHS, Craven worked closely with now Rochelle Elementary School District #231 Superintendent Todd Prusator. Prusator was principal at RTHS under superintendent Doug Creason before taking his position with the elementary district.
“I have worked closely with Jamie over the past 20 years and there is not a person that I respect more. There have been countless issues and circumstances that we have talked through and worked through and his integrity, thoughtful process, and desire and courage to do what is right and fair has been a constant through it all,” Prusator said. “The students of Rochelle and the Rochelle community have immensely benefitted from his service.”
Newly appointed RTHS superintendent Jason Harper is also glad to have worked closely with Craven for several years.
“Mr. Craven has been a great mentor and friend over the years to many RTHS educators, myself included,” Harper said. “His stories and big heart will be missed. We all wish him the best of luck.”
Board of education president Tom Huddleston agrees.
“Jamie Craven has worked for district 212 for 23 years. His leadership as superintendent, honesty, integrity and passion to educate our students are key principles of his success,” Huddleston said. “Jamie’s commitment to our community has preserved the impressive legacies and traditions of Rochelle Township High School.” 
Craven officially stepped into his new position with DeKalb School District #428 on Saturday, July 1.