Oak Lawn Community High School's Joe McCurdy Receives Career Achievement Award

OAK LAWN, IL—Oak Lawn Community High School District 229 assistant superintendent Joe McCurdy was a recipient of the Illinois Directors of Student Activities Career Achievement Award. The award recognizes school administrators who have made contributions throughout a career extending ten years or more, impacting student activity programs.

McCurdy served as assistant principal for activities from 2005 to 2017, where he expanded student groups, strengthened traditions, and embodied Spartan spirit, often in a bright-green suit and always with a selfie to celebrate our students as our “Mr. Spartan.” He oversaw assemblies, spirit weeks, dances, and special events such as Relay for Life, and provided steady leadership as the conference activities treasurer. Even after moving to the district office in 2017, McCurdy remained committed to students.

In 2022, he served as the sponsor of SADD, guiding students with compassion and purpose for four years. From activity coordination to sponsor evaluation, McCurdy’s career is defined by passion, service, and a belief in the power of student activities to transform a school community.

McCurdy received his award from IDSA on Feb. 24. He is retiring this year after 25 years at Oak Lawn Community High School.

“Joe McCurdy has been a leader in our district and exemplifies Spartan Pride,” OLCHS Assistant Principal Marcus Wargin said. “I am grateful for the mentorship he provided me when I took over the role of activity director and for the guidance he continued to provide. Joe McCurdy has helped shape our district, and we wish him a happy and long retirement.”

~Contributed by Jennifer Jepsen, OLCHS Staff Writer