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Dr. Gretchen Ludwig, Principal

Dr. Ludwig holds a Bachelor of Science from Wheaton College, a Master of Education from Western Washington University and a Doctor of Education from Northern Illinois University. She served as an elementary school principal for 19 years in District U46 and District 15 prior to joining Holy Family Academy in 2004. She is a parishioner of Holy Family Parish where she is a Eucharistic Minister and Minister of Care. Dr. Ludwig is also an accomplished soprano soloist.

The following comments from Holy Family teachers, parents and students will give you insight into Gretchen’s leadership qualities.

Since joining Holy Family Academy, I’ve been on parent interview teams for new teachers. (Something that was unheard of at my former school!) It is clear to me that Gretchen places as much weight on a person’s character, values and commitment as she does on specialized degrees and work experience. This is precisely how she builds such a great faculty.”

       4th grade parent, Barrington 

“It is clear to me that the teachers at Holy Family love what they do largely because of the genuine feeling of support, caring, and encouragement that they experience. This feeling transfers directly to the students. The culture of a school is a direct reflection of the principal. We are so blessed to have Gretchen’s leadership!” 

      -Roberta Muran, 6th grade teacher

“Dr. Ludwig always makes me feel special. She always has a smile and is always ready to give us hugs. She knows everyone’s name. I wonder how she does that?”            
-3rd grade student

"At my old school, the principal only talked to you if you were in trouble. At Holy Family, Dr. Ludwig is always there to say good morning and good-bye and ask questions about your day."     
-8th grade student

Dr. Ludwig's Halloween costume

"Gretchen is one of the most faith-filled people I know. She views her role at the Academy as a ministry to the school community. She resolves conflicts between students by empowering them to work it out by asking, “ How would Jesus feel if he were here?” Gretchen really “walks the talk” and models what it means to be Christian to the students."
-6th grade parent, N. Barrington

 

“Dr. Ludwig calmly talks to you about what you can learn from a mistake. I don’t think she ever gets mad at kids. She always has a smile on her face even when she gives you a friendly reminder to ‘tuck in’ (your uniform shirt)”
-5th grade student