What I will, I can
Administration
Meet the Morton East Administrators!
At Morton East High School, our mission is to create a safe, supportive, and enriching environment for all students, staff, and educators. Meet the dedicated Morton East administrative team—committed to delivering the highest quality education and helping every student succeed. Together, they lead with purpose, foster a culture of respect and achievement, and work in partnership with families and the community to ensure student growth. Get to know the leaders who make Morton East a place where students thrive.
Principal
Jose Gamboa
Email: JGamboa@jsmorton.org
Sharon Helma, Secretary 708-780-4000 x2318
Mirian Gonzalez, Asst. Secretary 708-780-4000 x2320
I take great pride in serving as part of the administrative team responsible for ensuring that ALL students have access to a learning environment fulfilling Morton High School District 201 mission that “Every student succeeds” in a safe and welcoming environment. I started as a social studies teacher at Morton East High School in 2001, served as a dean of students for two years and as an assistant principal of instruction and student activities for six years. Serving this community at the historic Morton East High School is both humbling and a great honor. It is a challenge that I look to take on every day!
- Illinois State University, Bachelor of Arts, Secondary Education
- Concordia University Chicago, Master of Arts, School Leadership
Assistant Principals
Dr. Michael Parrie
Assistant Principal of Operations
Phone: 708-780-4000 x2323
Email: mparrie@jsmorton.org
Patricia Polk, Secretary 708-780-4000 x2326
Welcome to Morton East High School! I am proud to be a Morton Mustang since 2003, having served as a science teacher, a curriculum and assessment director, and now as an assistant principal. In my current role, I oversee attendance, registration, records, and the master schedule. My goal is to provide an efficient school operation in which students learn best. I was honored to receive the State of Illinois "Those Who Excel" award for excellence in administration in 2022. Aside from Morton, I have served as an adjunct professor at Concordia University of Chicago. I have taught master's and doctoral-level educational leadership classes in the principal preparation program since 2006. In addition, I have volunteered my time as a member of the Park Tower Condo Association Board of Directors since 2013. My favorite hobby is to travel.
Degrees and Certifications
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Loyola University of Chicago Doctor of Philosophy, Administration and Supervision
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Superintendent Endorsement
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Master of Education, Administration and Supervision
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Principal Endorsement
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Bachelor of Science, Chemistry, Cum Laude
JoAnne Rzadzki
Assistant Principal of Instruction
Phone: 708-780-4000 x2223
Email: jrzadzki@jsmorton.org
I am proud to be a member of the Morton District 201 family and serve its community. I started in the district as a dean at Morton East, and am amazed at how we use our resources as best we can to ensure that “every student succeeds.” As an assistant principal, I strive to continue to see that all students can rise to their fullest potential by helping create an equitable learning environment in which our students will grow both educationally and personally. Building relationships with students and community is very important to me. Because of that, I am happy to be a part of the student activities team and connect with the community. This is my 17th year in education, and my 13th in administration. Three of those have been at Morton, and I am excited to continue to work with our students and community.
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Concordia University Chicago, Master of Arts, School Leadership
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University of Illinois-Chicago, Bachelor of Arts, Spanish
Estefania Cortes
Assistant Principal of Student Support Services
Phone: 708-780-4000 x2995
Email: ecortes@jsmorton.org
As a proud Morton East graduate, it’s an honor to give back to the Cicero community. I started my journey here in 2016 as a student teacher and have been fortunate to grow my career at Morton ever since. Over the years, I’ve taught English and Special Education, served as Dean of Students, and now have the privilege of supporting students as the Assistant Principal of Student Services. I care deeply about this community and take great pride in building strong, meaningful relationships with our students and their families. I’m excited to continue working together to help every student succeed. Once a Mustang, always a Mustang!
Como orgullosa graduada de Morton East, es un honor poder retribuir a la comunidad de Cicero. Comencé mi camino aquí en 2016 como maestra en formación y he tenido la fortuna de desarrollar mi carrera en Morton desde entonces. A lo largo de los años, he enseñado Inglés y Educación Especial, fui Decana de Estudiantes, y ahora tengo el privilegio de apoyar a nuestros estudiantes como Subdirectora de Servicios Estudiantiles. Me importa profundamente esta comunidad y me enorgullece construir relaciones sólidas y significativas con nuestros estudiantes y sus familias. Estoy emocionada de seguir trabajando juntos para ayudar a cada estudiante a tener éxito. ¡Una vez un Mustang, siempre un Mustang!
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BA in English, Northeastern Illinois University
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MA in Secondary Education, National-Louis University
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MA in Principal Preparation, Concordia University,
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LBS1 Endorsement, National-Louis University
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English as a Second Language Endorsement, Dominican University
Mark Sujak
Assistant Principal of Student Activities and Assessment
Phone: 708-780-4000
Email: MSujak@jsmorton.org
As a proud Morton East graduate from the Class of 2003, it’s a privilege to serve the Cicero community that shaped who I am. I began my career here in 2011 as an English teacher, where I also had the joy of sponsoring several student clubs and activities. In 2022, I stepped into the role of Director of English Language Arts and Media Services, and in 2025, I’m honored to continue that journey as the Assistant Principal of Student Activities and Assessment. I’m passionate about creating meaningful opportunities for students and celebrating all that makes Morton East special.
Degrees and Certifications
- BA in Secondary Education English, Northeastern Illinois University
- MA in Instructional Technology, Concordia University
- MA in Principal Preparation, Concordia University
- ESL Endorsement, Dominican University
Deans
Salandra Crockett
Lead Dean of Students
Phone: 708-780-4000 x2314
Email: SCrockett@jsmorton.org
I am proud to be the Lead Dean at Morton East High School. Serving the Cicero community is a great honor. My goal is to create and maintain a safe learning environment for all students. My passion is developing positive and authentic relationships with students, families, and staff. I began my educational career in 1995 as a Social Studies teacher at Farragut Career Academy in Chicago. I have served in multiple administrative roles which include Dean of Students, Assistant Principal of Discipline, Education to Career Coordinator and Director/Principal of Evening School. I am so elated to work with Morton East students I want to help them to succeed and strive for greatness.
Degrees and Certifications
- University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff, Bachelor of Arts in Political Science
- Roosevelt University, Master of Arts in History
- Roosevelt University, Master of Arts in Secondary Education
- Roosevelt University, Master of Arts in Education Administration
Sean Arana
Dean of Students
Phone: 708-780-4000 x2995
Email: SArana@jsmorton.org
I began my career as a Spanish teacher on the South Side of Chicago, spending 11 years in the classroom before transitioning into school administration. In 2018, I joined Morton West, where I also had the opportunity to coach baseball and girls basketball—two passions that remain close to my heart. My journey into leadership began as the Modern Language Lead Teacher, where I supported curriculum and teacher development. In the 2023–2024 school year, I took on a new role at Morton East as Dean of Students. I am deeply committed to serving my community and look forward to continuing to grow in educational leadership to make a lasting impact.
Degrees and Certifications
- Northeastern Illinois University – Bachelor's in Spanish Education
- National Louis University- Master's in Urban Education
- Roosevelt University - Master's in Educational Leadership
Kaitlyn Gill
Dean of Students
Phone: 708-780-4000 x2250
Email: kzale@jsmorton.org
This is my second year serving as Dean of Students at Morton East High School. Before stepping into this role, I spent five years as a math teacher in EL and bilingual classrooms, where I was passionate about supporting students both academically and linguistically. In addition to my teaching experience, I also served for three years as the Head JV Cheerleading Coach, where I enjoyed fostering school spirit and helping students grow as leaders. I’m proud to continue serving the Morton East community and committed to creating a safe, supportive, and engaging environment where all students can thrive.
Degrees and Certifications
- Illinois State University - Bachelor of Science, Mathematics
- Dominican University - ESL and Bilingual Endorsement
- Dominican University - Master of Arts in Education
- North Central College - Educational Leadership
Christopher Camerano
Dean of Students
Phone: 708-780-4000
Email: ccamerano@jsmorton.org
I am thrilled to serve as Dean of Students at Morton East High School. I will be entering the 17th year of my career in education, with 3 years' experience in administration and 13 years in the classroom. I look forward to serving the students, families, and staff at Morton East High School. As a dean, my goal is to create an environment where all students feel supported, safe, and motivated to succeed both academically and personally. I am committed to ensuring that every student at Morton East has the resources, guidance, and encouragement they need to reach their full potential. By focusing on student well-being, promoting positive behavior, and strengthening community engagement, I aim to help all of our students thrive.
Degrees and Certifications
- Eastern Illinois University - Bachelor of Science in Physics
- Concordia University Chicago - Master’s in Teacher Leadership
- Concordia University Chicago - Master’s in Principal Preparation
Manjula Singh-Pillai
Dean of Students
Email: MSingh@jsmorton.org
I am incredibly proud to have served our school district for the past thirty years. As my educational journey continues, I am truly elated to embrace my new role as Dean of Students at the East campus. Over the years, I have had the privilege of serving our district in various capacities: from teaching social sciences, being Dean of Students at the West Campus, to an EL teacher at the Freshmen Center, and also an EL Lead teacher. Moreover, most recently co-teaching across various content classes while providing academic support for our Multi-Lingual lab classes. My primary focus for the last fifteen years has been dedicated to our growing EL student population. Beyond teaching, I've had the honor of mentoring new teachers, sharing a plethora of educational resources for the EL student population, and establishing relationships built on trust, respect, and collaboration. Ultimately, I am keen in utilizing my passion for education and eclectic experience to benefit all our students as they transition for life beyond high school.
Degrees and Certifications
- Illinois State University, Bachelor of Science in Education, Social Sciences
- North Central College, Master of Science in Educational Leadership
- National Louis University, Master of Science in Curriculum and Instruction, ESL Endorsement
Coordinators/Specialists
Megan Stachura
Special Education Coordinator
Phone: 708-780-4000 x2333
Email: mstachura@jsmorton.org
My name is Megan Stachura, and I am proud to serve as the Special Education Coordinator at Morton District 201. I have over 15 years of experience working in education, including roles as Special Education leader, Dean of Students, and School Social Worker. In my current role, I lead a team of dedicated teachers and paraprofessionals to ensure that our students receive the individualized supports they need to succeed both academically and socially. I earned my Bachelor’s degree in Social Work from Indiana University Bloomington, followed by a Master’s in Social Work from Loyola University Chicago. I completed an Advanced Psychodynamic Clinical Practice Fellowship at the University of Chicago and subsequently earned an Educational Specialist degree in Administration and Supervision from National Louis University. Most recently, I obtained my Director of Special Education License from National Louis University. I am excited to continue working with our students, families, and staff to support student growth and success.
Laura Smith
Teacher Appraisal Specialist
Phone: 708-780-4000
Email: lsmith@jsmorton.org
It is a great pleasure to work with the amazing faculty and staff at Morton East High School! In my role as Teacher Appraisal Specialist, I provide feedback to teachers and certified staff, helping them to develop their professional practice and ensure all students receive excellent instruction and supports. I have served in school leadership positions over 20 years in Chicago and Oak Park, and I am excited to continue working with the incredible Morton East community.
Degrees and Certifications
- Marquette University – Bachelor of Arts in Communications and Spanish
- Loyola University Chicago – Master of Education
- National Louis University – Administrative Certificate
Lauren Keppler
Biliteracy Coordinator
Phone: 708-780-4000 x2806
Email: lkeppler@jsmorton.org
I am honored to make my professional home in the strong multilingual community of Cicero. I began my career as a bilingual teacher in 2004 and joined Morton East High School in 2016 as a Biliteracy Coach. My work at Morton has focused on building student language assets and increasing opportunities for our multilingual students. As Biliteracy Coordinator for Morton East and Freshman Center, I support our language learning programs to enable all students to develop their skills to earn the Seal of Biliteracy upon graduation. Come see me if you have any questions about the Seal of Biliteracy, the Morton School for Biliteracy dual language program, or our English learner program.
Es un honor hacer mi hogar profesional en la fuerte comunidad multilingüe de Cicero. Comencé como maestra bilingüe en 2004 y me uní a Morton East High School en 2016 como entrenadora bilingüe. Mi trabajo en Morton se ha centrado en desarrollar las destrezas lingüisticas de los estudiantes y aumentar oportunidades para nuestros estudiantes multilingües. Como Coordinadora Bilingüe de las escuelas Morton East y Freshman Center, apoyo nuestros programas de aprendizaje de idiomas para que todos los estudiantes desarrollen sus habilidades y Tengan la oportunidad de obtener el Sello de Alfabetización Bilingüe al graduarse. Venga a verme si tiene alguna pregunta acerca del Sello de Bilingüismo, el programa de lenguaje dual, la Escuela para el Bilingüismo, o nuestro programa de aprendizaje de inglés.
Degrees and Certifications
- BA in Foreign Languages with Teacher Certification, Eastern Illinois University
- MSed in Literacy Education – Bilingual Education, Northern Illinois University
- MA in Dual Language Teacher Leadership – Roosevelt University
- Graduate Certificate in Dual Language Principal Leadership – Roosevelt University
- National Board Certified Teacher: English as a New Language – Early Adolescence and Young Adult
Dr. Jason Hlavacs
Career and Work-Based Learning Coordinator
Phone: 708-780-4000
Email: JHlavacs@jsmorton.org
Dr. Jason Hlavacs returns to Morton East with extensive experience in career and technical education, workforce development, and innovative program design. Having previously served Morton in multiple leadership and instructional roles, Dr. Hlavacs now brings more than two decades of expertise back to the district as the Career and Work-Based Learning Coordinator. In this role, he is committed to expanding partnerships with local businesses and community organizations, strengthening work-based learning opportunities, and supporting students as they explore high-demand career pathways.
Dr. Hlavacs’ career has been defined by a dedication to student success, hands-on learning, and meaningful connections between education and the world of work. His leadership in developing industry-aligned programs, dual credit opportunities, and real-world career experiences continues to promote Morton’s mission of preparing students for their futures through high-quality, relevant, and engaging learning experiences.
Degrees and Certifications
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Doctor of Education (Ed.D.), Educational Leadership – Aurora University, 2015
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Certificate of Advanced Study, Educational Administration – Lewis University, 2009
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M.A., Technology Education (STEM) – Ball State University, 2004
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B.S., Industrial Education – Western Illinois University, 2001
