Oak Park Schools Earn National Recognition for Creating Exemplary School Culture

OAK PARK — Oak Park Schools is proud to announce that Lessenger Early Childhood Center and Einstein Elementary have been named 2024–2025 Capturing Kids’ Hearts (CKH) National Showcase Schools, a distinction awarded to campuses that exemplify a culture of strong relationships, academic excellence, and social-emotional learning. 

Out of more than 2,000 schools nominated nationwide, only 800 were selected, placing Lessenger and Einstein among an elite group of schools recognized for creating emotionally safe, engaging, and effective learning environments. “This recognition affirms the extraordinary work our staff has done to create a safe and supportive culture where students can truly flourish,” said Superintendent Angel Abdulahad. “The daily efforts of our staff to build positive relationships and an inclusive environment represent the heart of what it means to be a caring, collaborative school community. I am extremely proud of everyone who made this honor possible.” 

These schools have consistently demonstrated a districtwide commitment to student well-being. 

The Capturing Kids’ Hearts (CKH) framework has been implemented across all Oak Park Schools, PreK through 12th, after initially launching at Lessenger, Einstein, Pepper, and Key elementary schools. It is now embedded in classroom instruction, school operations, and staff collaboration. CKH provides training to every school employee—from teachers and administrators to support staff—ensuring every student receives consistent care, respect, and encouragement throughout the school day. “Being named a National Showcase School is a tremendous honor. It affirms the hard work our staff has done to create a safe and supportive culture where students can truly flourish. The CKH program is woven into the fabric of our school, from classroom activities to staff meetings, ensuring that its principles guide our interactions, decision-making, and overall culture. Through these efforts, we strive to create a community where relationships are prioritized, hearts are captured, and everyone feels valued.  This recognition places us among an elite group of schools nationwide that are leading the way in social-emotional learning and relationship-driven education. We remain committed to continuing our work with Capturing Kids’ Hearts to foster connected, compassionate, and empowered learners,” said Principal Provenzola. 

At Lessenger Early Childhood Center, which serves children ages 2½ to 6, CKH plays a critical role in supporting social-emotional development and building school readiness. “This nomination is such a meaningful honor. This year, our team has exemplified what it means to lead with heart. By fully embracing the tenets of Capturing Kids’ Hearts, we’ve built more than just classrooms, we’ve cultivated a community grounded in trust, connection, and purpose. Through every greeting, every Social Contract, and every meaningful interaction, we’ve fostered strong relationships among colleagues, between staff and students, and with our families. These efforts have not gone unnoticed. Together, we’ve created a warm, inclusive environment where learning is joyful, academic growth is celebrated, and families feel deeply connected. Our Capturing Kids Hearts’ culture and climate stand as a testament to our commitment, and I couldn’t be prouder,” said Director North.

Einstein and Lessenger continue to offer measurable impact and meaningful change in the classroom. Through the implementation of CKH the district has learned to handle and embrace healthy conflict in a constructive way. For example, teachers can disagree on (strategy), but everyone is committed to pushing forward to set high expectations for students and for one another. “Thanks to our Superintendent, Mr. Abdulahad, our academic initiatives and our social-emotional initiatives are aligned to support one another in being optimally effective for students’ overall well-being,” i.e., academically and socially. This alignment positions our district to thrive at the highest level, to be a frontrunner in innovative educational initiatives and student success.” Director North continued.  

Feedback from families and students has shown that CKH is positively influencing behavior, communication skills, and academic success.

Surveys taken throughout the school year reveal improvements in both social-emotional and educational outcomes. 

Oak Park Schools has established intentional touchpoints throughout the school day to ensure that students and families experience meaningful, consistent interactions with staff. These efforts are designed to leverage the district’s collective strengths and foster a strong, supportive foundation for student success.

As a result, the district has observed noticeable growth in students’ critical thinking skills and the frequency of authentic, face-to-face conversations between students and staff. In an increasingly digital world, the Capturing Kids’ Hearts framework is helping students reconnect with the importance of empathy, communication, and genuine human connection.

Lessenger Early Childhood Center educates about 250 Pre-K - Kindergarten students with a team of 25 full-time teachers, while Einstein Elementary currently serves approximately 400 students in grades K–5. Both schools offer a wide range of support services, including social work, school psychology, programs for English language learners, and multiple enrichment opportunities. 

The achievements of these two schools have created a community-wide Celebration. The showcase award is a reflection of the collective efforts across the district, which serves around 3,400 students in seven schools from early childhood through high school. “This award is a testament to our entire community’s commitment to capturing hearts and empowering minds,” said Superintendent Abdulahad. “We are honored to be recognized and remain dedicated to nurturing the next generation of engaged, compassionate learners.” 

Lessenger Early Childhood Center is located at 12901 Albany St. in Oak Park. For more information, call (248) 336-7690. Einstein Elementary School is located at 14001 Northend Ave. in Oak Park. For more information, call (248) 336-7640.

For more information about Oak Park Schools and its commitment to student-centered learning, visit oakparkschools.org.