Leighanne Kaczmarek’s connection to Ridge Lawn Elementary School runs deep, stretching from her roots in a neighboring community to a career spent entirely within Chicago Ridge School District 127.5.
Raised in nearby Oak Lawn and now living in Homer Glen with her husband, Kaczmarek has dedicated her professional life to the district she now prepares to help lead. She is currently in her eighth year as assistant principal at Ridge Lawn and will step into the principal role at the conclusion of the 2025-26 school year.
The District 127.5 Board of Education voted in December to appoint Kaczmarek as the school’s next principal. She will succeed Fran Setaro, who is retiring after more than three decades in the district.
“My entire professional career has been in Chicago Ridge School District 127.5,” Kaczmarek said.
She began as a middle school teacher at Finley Junior High, where she taught for nine years. During that time, she also coached track and volleyball and served as the National Junior Honor Society sponsor. She later transitioned to Ridge Lawn Elementary, where she has spent the past eight years as assistant principal.
“Our current principal is retiring after more than 32 years in the district, and we are working closely together to ensure a smooth and successful transition,” she said.
Kaczmarek earned her undergraduate degree in elementary education from Saint Xavier University, with endorsements in middle school language arts and social studies. She later received a master’s degree in educational administration from Concordia University.
Her work has also extended beyond the school, with leadership roles at the district level, including serving on committees focused on social-emotional learning and artificial intelligence, as well as contributing to the technology component of the district’s strategic plan.
Kaczmarek said what stands out most about Ridge Lawn is its strong sense of community.
“We have an incredible community of students, staff and families that truly make Ridge Lawn a special place,” she said. “What stands out most is how we come together to support one another — we are truly Eagle Strong.”
She said that spirit is reflected in the school’s daily environment.
“There is a shared commitment to working hard for our students, but also a genuine sense of joy, fun and excitement in our building each day,” Kaczmarek said. “It is a privilege to be part of a team that cares so deeply while creating such a positive and energetic environment.”
As she prepares to take on the new role, Kaczmarek said she is focused on building on that foundation.
“I am honored to continue serving Chicago Ridge School District 127.5,” she said. “Having devoted my entire career to this district, I am excited to step into the principal role and continue this work in a new capacity. I look forward to strengthening relationships with our students, staff and community as we build on the strong foundation already in place.”
Kaczmarek will officially assume her new position July 1, 2026.