Principal
El Higus
309-284-2010
Mrs. Higus grew up in Waukegan, IL. She obtained her Bachelor’s Degree from Illinois Wesleyan University in 2011 and a Master's Degree in Reading Education from St. Xavier University in 2015. She received her board certification as a Middle Childhood Generalist in 2018 and completed her Educational Leadership Certificate at SIUE in 2024. She taught 5th grade for six years in Chillicothe.
Mrs. Higus began her career with Morton 709 in 2017 at Lincoln Elementary School, teaching 4th Grade. She then transitioned to the role of Instructional Coach for the district, supporting classroom teachers with curriculum implementation and utilizing best practices in their classroom instructional practices
Mrs. Higus has an extensive collection of in-classroom teaching and classroom leadership experiences. Data collection has been an integral part of her coaching role, and her education, which are skills and experiences that will serve her well in her new position as principal.
Mrs. Higus is passionate about supporting the academic, social, emotional, and physical growth of students. She is committed to helping students, teachers and caretakers develop the skills they need to be knowledgeable, value-driven, and curious in our learning community. She is excited to be a Grundy Gator.
Mrs. Higus is married to Timm, a Morton High School graduate. They have two energetic and curious sons who keep them busy at home.