Dr. del Castillo brings her experiences as a third-generation teacher, trained special educator, immigrant, and non-native English speaker to her multifaceted leadership role in Huntley 158.
Dr. Rocio del Castillo, assistant superintendent for special services, was honored in Shaw Media’s Women of Distinction Program, recognizing her among a select group of representative role models and leaders in their fields and communities.
The profile of Dr. del Castillo, notes her belief in the power of education for all people. Her passion for the field was developed as a third-generation teacher, and her commitment to social justice and equity is born out of her experiences as an immigrant, non-native English speaker, and trained special educator.
She was among 11 honorees in 2020. Women of Distinction identifies women who have made a difference in McHenry County. Nominations are deliberated on by a panel of Northwest Herald employees and past honorees.
Dr. del Castillo has developed a national reputation as an expert in bilingual and dual language instruction. She has overseen the implementation of the District’s Dual Language program and has presented at numerous national conferences.
In addition, Dr. del Castillo leads the District’s Educational Equity efforts, having chaired the Equity Action Coalition’s planning process. The result of that group’s work was the Equity Action Plan, outlining both a foundational structure and concrete action steps for the District to take over the next five years to create a more equitable educational environment for all students.
She is a frequent guest and commenter in national educational media, including the BAM! Radio Network and EdWeek. She has also served as an adjunct instructor of education and social justice at multiple Chicago-area universities.
