It Takes a Village to Build a School Leader

Ms. Lorraine Nuñez, the assistant principal at Otis Elementary, always knew she wanted to become an Educator. So twenty-four years ago, she did exactly that when she joined CPS as a middle school teacher.

Early in her career, AP Nuñez was inspired to pursue a Masters degree in Reading Education in hopes of improving her impact on struggling readers. After graduating, she spent several years as a Reading coach, a classroom teacher, and an instructional support leader for literacy before joining the Otis school community as their assistant principal.

“When working as a reading coach and at the Network level, I developed the desire to move into school leadership,” she says. “I longed to have a ‘home base’ where I could have a greater impact.” 

AP Nuñez’s day-to-day consists of walking down the halls, popping into classrooms, and checking in on people to ensure both students and staff feel seen and heard. It’s also important to her that she encourages parent involvement through initiatives like their Coffee with Principals event, where she collaborates with parents to gather their feedback on school operations. AP Nuñez’s favorite part of her job is when staff members stop her in the hallways to discuss the good news and exciting projects happening in their classrooms.   

AP Nuñez describes her first year as a school leader as fulfilling, and one that she was able to lead with the help of advice and guidance from school leaders, she connected with at the Network level, as well as through the CPS Department of Principal Quality’s New Assistant Principal Institute. 

“I’ve never left a New AP Institute meeting without something tangible I can implement at school right away,” she explains. “I lead the culture and climate team at Otis, and there was a moment this school year when I felt overwhelmed with the work we had to get done. A year two AP at a meeting suggested creating subcommittees, which was the best idea ever.” 

Through DPQ’s institute, AP Nuñez has built camaraderie with assistant principals from across the District, some of whom she describes as lifelines who have helped her overcome many obstacles. She is also grateful for the professional learning opportunities the program has offered, such as a recent school leader panel focused on family and community engagement through strategic, positive messaging, which has been one of her biggest priorities at Otis.

As the end of the school year approaches, AP Nuñez encourages her school community to take advantage of each day and embrace it as a new growing opportunity. She believes that even the challenging days can make for great learning experiences. During this AP appreciation week, she encourages her colleagues to take a moment to reflect on the positive aspects of their school year.

“When reflecting on my first year, I’ve noticed that I’ve learned a lot about leading a school successfully, and I now feel prepared to start my second year stronger and more knowledgeable,” says AP Nuñez. “I want my fellow APs to stop and think about all the good moments that have stood out to you this year and pat yourself on the back. You’re appreciated, and your hard work is acknowledged!”