Jorge Valdez Named Principal of Sauk Elementary

Sauk Elementary School in Richton Park welcomed a new leader this fall with the appointment of Jorge Valdez as principal.

Valdez is a familiar face in Matteson School District 162. For the past three years, he served as assistant principal at Matteson Elementary School, where he built connections with many families who now attend Sauk.

"I'm excited to start a new journey and new challenges," Valdez said. "District 162 is like one giant family. I'm looking forward to continuing to work with everyone to help the students grow and learn every day."

Before joining District 162, Valdez spent three years as an assistant principal in Cicero and began his career teaching for 12 years in Joliet. He earned a Bachelor of Science from Purdue University and a Master's degree in Education with a concentration in Leadership and Supervision from Ball State University.

For the Valdez family, a commitment to education runs deep. Valdez's wife, Jen, is also an educator and together they are raising three children - Lucas, Aubrey, and Riley. In his free time, Valdez enjoys coaching his children and exploring new places with his family.

Looking ahead, Valdez has set ambitious goals for Sauk Elementary.

"Excellence is the expectation in 162," he said. "I envision Sauk becoming exemplary through the hard work of all of our students and staff and partnerships with the community and families."

The "exemplary" designation is the highest rating awarded by the Illinois State Board of Education, signifying a school ranks in the top 10 percent statewide with no underperforming student groups.

It is a standard Valdez believes Sauk can achieve.

"Working together, we can make sure that our students soar every day," he said. "It's always a great day to be an Eagle."