On Monday, May 20, the District 99 Board of Education approved the hiring of Philip Howard as Chief Technology Officer and Robert Godinez to the role of Dean of Students at Downers Grove South High School.
Chief Technology Officer: Philip Howard
(Phillip Howard, with Dr. Travis McGuire, Assistant Superintendent)
Howard has 24 years of experience in all aspects of information technology, including 18 years in education. Since 2019, he has served as executive director of technology services for Lake Zurich CUSD 95, where he has led a team of 14 IT professionals in all aspects of technology strategy. From 2006 to 2019, Howard served in a variety of technology roles at Elgin Community College.
“The Chief Technology Officer position holds significant importance within our organization, profoundly influencing various facets of our daily operations as well as the teaching and learning environment in D99,” said Dr. Travis McGuire, assistant superintendent for learning resources. “Philip’s experience and impact using technology as a teaching and learning tool, as well as a tool for operational efficiency, will have a positive impact on both our current and future plans in an ever changing technological landscape.”
Howard will begin on July 1, 2024. He will replace Colleen Davoren, who is retiring.
Downers Grove South High School Dean: Robert Godinez
“We are all impressed by Robert and the incredibly diverse experience and wealth of knowledge he will bring to our school,” said South High Principal Arwen Lyp. “We are excited for Robert to join our team and I look forward to watching him form positive connections with students, staff, and families.”
Since 2015, Godinez has served on leadership teams for several schools within the Chicago Public Schools system. As a resident principal at Carver Military Academy High School, he led teachers in the implementation of equitable grading practices, led learning walks and increased parent engagement within the Spanish-speaking community. As an assistant principal at Farragut Career Academy and at Peace & Education Coalition Alternative High School, he supported multiple grade levels, targeted the development of instructional shifts and managed safety, security and restorative practices to positively impact the school’s culture and climate. He also served as Spanish teacher and World Language department leader at Lake View High School and taught Spanish and Spanish for Heritage Speakers at Morton East High School.
“I’m committed to being an effective and inspirational leader by leading with empathy and equity, being a collaborative partner, and continuing to develop my skill set as a school leader,” commented Godinez. “As I transition into this role, I look forward to working with students, staff, parents, and community members as we continue to create high-quality learning environments and opportunities to develop students into lifelong learners.”
A first-generation college graduate, Godinez earned a B.A. in Spanish and secondary education from Western Illinois University and a Masters of Arts in Teaching from the University of Illinois at Chicago. He is the father of two children and is preparing to welcome a newborn daughter in late May.