Welcome to Pleasantdale Elementary School! I'm honored to serve the Pleasantdale community as Elementary Principal. Our school has a tradition of academic excellence created by dedicated staff and involved parents. We work to foster a growth mindset among our students and teachers through a supportive and challenging learning environment. We are guided by the District's Strategic Blueprint and Mission: To create a community of inspired learners.

My work in education began at a small Catholic school in Highwood, IL where I taught 2nd grade. From there I went on to teach 2nd grade in Lincolnshire Prairie-View School District 103 for 10 years. After having my two children, I moved into administration in Lake Bluff School District 65 where I served as Acting Principal (K-2), Assistant Principal (K-8), and RtI Director (K-8). I then worked for 6 years at Lincoln Elementary in Elmhurst Community Unit School District 205 where our school was named a Blue Ribbon School of Excellence during my tenure. Looking for a small school community like the ones in which I spent the first part of my career working, led me to Pleasantdale Elementary School. Since 2017 I have served as our Elementary Principal alongside an amazing team of talented Administrators, Teachers and Support Staff. 

The work we do is challenging yet rewarding. Those who call Pleasantdale Elementary School their "work-home" are among the best in the business and are dedicated to ensuring each child's learning and growth. As a result, our students are among the highest performing in the State of Illinois. We invite you to learn more about our school as we work together to move from great to greater.

Please feel free to contact me with any questions, concerns or suggestions.  My direct line is 708-246-2012.

For our students,
Kathleen Tomei