Jack Baldermann, 2017 Illinois Principal of the Year, 2018 National Principal of the Year Finalist, and 2022 Golden Apple Golder Award for Excellence in Educational Leadership, has led Professional Learning Community work for over 26 years as a principal and was mentored by Dr. Rick DuFour. In 2020 Jack and his team led Westmont High School to win the DuFour Award as the best Professional Learning Community in the United States. Utilizing PLC concepts, Westmont HS has become one of the most improved in the state and nation with a 99% overall graduation rate, only 7 drop outs in the last ten years, a 100% graduation rate for African-American and Latino students nine years in a row, double digit increases on state exams and one of the top performing, most inclusive and most improved Advanced Placement programs in the country. In 2021 Westmont was awarded the National Blue Ribbon Award. Jack has made over 400 presentations and worked successfully with educators in 49 states and Canada. He began his duties as superintendent for the Westmont Community Unit School District 201 on July 1, 2023.