Earlier this spring, District 97 relaunched “We Are D97,” a storytelling series that celebrates the people who make District 97 what it is.
Across our schools and community, we see everyday actions—big and small—that reflect our shared values and make a meaningful difference in students’ lives. Through “We Are D97,” the district recognizes the people behind those moments.
Last week, district leaders surprised the first two “We Are D97” honorees in their classrooms: Jaz’mun Brooks at Beye Elementary School and Alyssa McGrone at Mann Elementary School.
Jaz’mun Brooks – Beye Elementary School
Jaz’mun Brooks, a first-grade teacher at Beye Elementary School, was nominated by parent and District 97 teacher librarian Laurie Conley, who shared how Ms. Brooks helps students feel seen, valued and connected at school.
“Ms. Brooks truly sees my son, Will, for who he is and meets him there—with humor, warmth and clear expectations,” Conley wrote in her nomination. “He now looks forward to going to school every day.”
Conley described Brooks as an educator who exemplifies the values of belonging, connection and community through the relationships she builds with students and the joyful classroom culture she creates.
“Ms. Brooks strikes an incredible balance of being firm while also making learning joyful and engaging,” she shared. “She builds strong relationships with her students and creates a classroom where kids feel known, valued and excited to participate.”
Now in her first year in District 97 and sixth year in elementary education, Brooks says she strives to make learning joyful, engaging and memorable for students.
“I love making learning fun,” she shared. “In my classroom, I’m not afraid to be the biggest kid in the room and my students respond to that energy.”
Whether using funny voices during read-alouds, turning math into games, or dressing up as “Detective Brooks” to solve learning mysteries, she works to create a classroom where students are curious, engaged and excited to learn.
Beyond academics, Brooks said she is passionate about helping students navigate life by teaching accountability, respect, responsibility and perseverance.
“I may only have my students for one school year, but I strive to create experiences and lessons that stay with them for a lifetime,” she said.
Alyssa McGrone – Mann Elementary School
Alyssa McGrone, a teacher assistant at Mann Elementary School, was nominated by teacher Nicole Pines, who described her as a vital part of the classroom community and someone who consistently goes above and beyond for students.
“She exemplifies everything that D97 is looking for in terms of inspiring students,” Pines wrote in her nomination. “She steps up every day without question and continues to support students throughout the school, not just our classroom. Students love her and make her pictures to show how much she positively impacts them.”
Pines described McGrone as someone who exemplifies the values of belonging, connection and community through the relationships she builds with students and the care she brings to every interaction.
“Her biggest strength is continuing to promote equity, fairness and growth mindset in my classroom,” Pines shared. “She is extremely positive, hardworking and strives to connect with every child.”
McGrone has worked in District 97 for six years, previously serving at Julian Middle School before joining Mann this school year.
“What I love most about my role at Mann School are the incredible people and kids I am blessed to be with every day,” McGrone shared. “I am part of such a loving and warm community of teachers and staff who work their hardest every day to give their absolute best—and they do it all with love.”
She said the “Pines Parrots” classroom holds a special place in her heart and credited Nicole Pines and her fellow paraprofessionals for inspiring and supporting her work.
“I am absolutely honored to have been chosen as the We Are D97 honoree,” McGrone said. “I hope to continue to grow and serve the wonderful District 97 community.”
District 97 will continue highlighting “We Are D97” honorees throughout the year on the district website and social media channels.