Meet the Principal

Dear Families,

Welcome to Hawthorn School of Dual Language! I am honored to be your Principal for this coming school year. I look forward to making this a wonderful year filled with learning, growth and of course fun. As your Principal, it is important to me that everyone who steps through our doors-teachers, students and parents-are excited to be here!  This attitude allows us to meet the challenges of academic excellence in a positive, exciting, and nurturing environment.  

I come from a family of educators. Teaching and learning has been a part of my life ever since I was a little kid. I have been devoted to the field of education for 11 years. I began my educational journey while studying at Western Illinois University in Macomb, Illinois. It was there, I received my Bachelor of Science in Education in Bilingual/Bicultural Education and English as a Second Language. During that time, I also studied abroad at La Universidad Nacional de Costa Rica Heredia, Costa Rica. 

Following my time in Costa Rica, I was a classroom teacher in the intermediate grades for nine years. During this time, I earned my Master of Arts Degree in Reading Education from Concordia University and became a certified reading specialist and my Master of Science Degree in Educational Leadership from National Louis University.

Hawthorn School of Dual Language is a highly recognized program, where our staff values and understands the importance of being bilingual and bicultural. We pride ourselves on being able to provide an environment that enriches and enhances our students’ academic and language opportunities. Hawthorn School of Dual Language is ready to welcome our students back to engage in meaningful learning experiences and continue to move forward to our goal of becoming bilingual and biliterate.

Thanks for your continued support, and the privilege of educating your children.My door is always open. Should you have any questions about Hawthorn School of Dual Language, feel free to email (rodrigon@hawthorn73.org).

Sincerely,

Nikki Rodrigo
Principal, Hawthorn School of Dual Language