Principal Discusses Measures Taken in Aftermath of Teacher's Arrest

It has been just over a week since alleged events involving a student and former drama and English teacher, Ronald J. Culver, 51, began to unfold at Lake Zurich High School (LZHS), resulting in a felony charge of aggravated criminal sexual abuse against Culver by Lake Zurich police.

The initial mood of the school was "shock," and "disbelief," according to Michael J. Egan, District 95 superintendent.

Since the announcement of Culver's resignation and arrest on Monday, Nov. 1, the administration at LZHS and District 95 stepped into action, providing a crisis response team made up of psychologists, social workers, and counselors from throughout the district for students and staff. Counselors were specifically placed in Culver's former classrooms this week.

"Several students did take advantage of the counseling staff we provided and will be offered as long as they need it," said Kim Kolze, LZHS principal.

During the week, Kolze has been responding to questions and concerns from parents who have been calling, e-mailing, or stopping in.

"I've tried very hard to address each one," said Kolze.

A second blow came to students this week when the production "The Sparrow," run by Culver, was cancelled. The play was scheduled to run from Thursday, Nov. 4 – Saturday, Nov. 6.  Egan announced his decision to cancel the play on Tuesday, Nov. 2, to all parents and students involved in the production.

"The parents and kids were very upset and some are still upset, but it wasn't done without a lot of input and thought," said Kolze. "I know it weighed heavily on Dr. Egan."

Marcel Graham, technical director, approached Egan with the idea of variety show to take the place of the cancelled production. 

"Dr. Egan gratefully agreed to it," said Graham.

The variety show has been aptly named "The Phoenix" with the tag line, "Rising Above the Ashes to Entertain You."

"They (drama students) are happy they are together again," said Kolze.

The administration is looking at finding a replacement for Culver as soon as possible. His classes have continued on with substitutes filling in.

"We know consistency and getting back into a routine is very important to kids," said Kolze. "The institute day on Wednesday provided some relief, giving everyone a break."

The variety show performance is at 2 p.m., Sunday, Nov. 7, at the LHX Performing Arts Center. Tickets are free of charge, but donations are being accepted. A second show might be added at 6 p.m. if the first show is sold out.

"I think we're finally starting to see a light at the end of the tunnel," said Kolze.