Dear District 48 Community,
The end of another school year brings its usual mix of goodbyes and hellos. This year, we have some bittersweet leadership changes to announce, alongside other exciting developments.
We're announcing some shifts within our district's leadership team, beginning with the departure of a familiar face. After an incredible 14 years of dedicated service, Albright Principal Dr.Gerrie Aulisa will be leaving us to take an exciting new role at the Technology Center of Dupage. Many of you know Gerrie well, as she has served as a leader in all three of our schools over the years. We are immensely grateful for her commitment and lasting contributions to our district and families.
While we'll miss Dr. Aulisa we're thrilled to announce that some other familiar faces will be stepping into new leadership roles. Assistant Principal, Mrs. Heidi Hummel will be taking over as Principal at Albright Middle School next year. Additionally, due to a shift in grade levels, we're creating a new district-wide Assistant Principal position, and we are proud to announce that Mr. Steven Hanus will be stepping into that role. As you know, Salt Creek District 48 is like a family, and we're excited to welcome Mrs. Hummel and Mr. Hanus to their new leadership positions, continuing our tradition of excellence. Each of them have written a personal announcement below.
We look forward to an exciting summer and a fantastic new school year!
Sincerely,
Amy
Dr. Amy M. Zaher
___________________________________________________________
Dr. Gerrie Aulisa
Dear Viking Families,
Over the past fourteen years, it has been one of my greatest honors to grow alongside your children. From Salt Creek to Swartz, and finally to Albright, I’ve had the rare privilege of watching many of them learn, thrive, and become remarkable young people. I used to joke with the Class of 2023 that I might even follow them to high school, and in an unexpected twist, that’s not too far from the truth.
Beginning July 1st, I will be stepping into a new role as the Director of Educational Programs at the Technology Center of DuPage (TCD), where high school students explore pathways in fields like cosmetology, fire science, and other trades. I already know of a few Vikings who will be joining programs at TCD in the fall, and nothing makes me happier than knowing I’ll still get to be part of their journey, just in a different capacity.
You may not know that I began my career in education at Addison Trail High School, teaching technology, art, and business. When I saw the opening at TCD, it felt like coming full circle, an opportunity that blends my passions with the chance to keep serving students in this incredible community. While it’s very bittersweet to leave Albright, I do so with immense pride in what we’ve built together and confidence in the continued success of our school.
I’m also so proud to share that Mrs. Heidi Hummel, who has been a dedicated and outstanding Assistant Principal for the past three years, will be stepping into the role of Principal. Her heart is fully in this work, and I can’t imagine a more capable leader to carry Albright forward. And yes, we’re already working on a plan so Benny can stay on part-time, because he’s simply irreplaceable. Mr. Stephen Hanus, currently the Salt Creek and Swartz PE teacher, will be moving into the Assistant Principal role for District 48, and I am sure our students will be excited about that! I know Mrs. Hummel and Mr. Hanus will continue to do wonderful work at Albright!
Thank you, from the bottom of my heart, for trusting me with your children, for your support, and for the memories that will stay with me forever. I hope our paths continue to cross in the years to come.
Once a Viking, always a Viking.
With heartfelt gratitude,
Gerrie Aulisa
_________________________________________________________________
Mrs. Heidi Hummel - New Albright Principal
Hello Viking Families! My name is Heidi Hummel, and I’m honored to step into the role of principal at Albright Middle School. For the past three years, I’ve had the pleasure of serving this community as both assistant principal and science teacher. Before joining Albright, I spent 12 years at Marquardt Middle School, where I taught Spanish and science. I’m incredibly excited to continue supporting the students, staff, and families of Albright in this new capacity. Over the past few years, we’ve made tremendous strides in student growth, and I look forward to building on that momentum. I’m especially eager to deepen connections with families, support our dedicated staff, and ensure that our students benefit from a well-rounded middle school experience—both academically and through a variety of after-school clubs and activities. With exciting renovations underway, including a brand-new entrance, office, LMC, and gym set to open next year, it’s a great time to be part of the Albright community.
________________________________________________________________
Mr. Steven Hanus - New District Assistant Principal
I have been extremely lucky to have worked in this great district for the past 15 years. I have had many different roles from teacher to coach to subbing as an assistant principal and as a principal. My family and I are very excited for me to be continuing my professional journey in the district by becoming the Salt Creek 48 Assistant Principal. Salt Creek 48 has become a second family to me. Having the opportunity to get to know so many amazing students and families over the years and to get to see them learn and grow has been such a wonderful experience. I am looking forward to now having the ability to work closely with the staff and students at all 3 schools as the Assistant Principal. The chance to have an impact on student growth and achievement beyond the classroom is going to be such an experience and I can't wait to get started.