Innovation in education focuses on transforming learning and teaching, the school environment, and leadership and culture. Learning and teaching innovations emphasize personalized learning experiences tailored to individual student needs and interests, moving away from a one-size-fits-all approach. This includes project-based learning, where students apply knowledge and skills to real-world projects; inquiry-based learning, fostering exploration and discovery; design thinking, using a human-centered problem-solving approach; and competency-based learning, prioritizing mastery over seat time. The school environment is also being reimagined with flexible learning spaces that adapt to various activities, robust technology infrastructure, and readily available digital resources. Crucially, innovative schools cultivate visionary leadership that encourages experimentation and risk-taking, foster collaborative cultures involving all stakeholders, and commit to continuous improvement. Over the past 13 years, I have collaborated with teachers to develop the vision and set the goals for the Math, Computer Science, World Language, Physical Education, Art, and Music departments. These efforts have helped maintain a clear focus throughout the year on overall school improvement and the success of every student. Since implementing many of these practices, Lane Tech has seen a significant rise in the U.S. News state and national rankings, most recently securing the #3 spot in Illinois and #60 nationally.
MATH
As a school administrator, I implemented targeted strategies to improve math scores and decrease the number of students struggling with math. I collaborated with math department staff to analyze student performance data, identify learning gaps, and design tailored interventions. By providing professional development opportunities focused on differentiated instruction and data-driven decision-making, I empowered teachers to better support diverse learners.
I also prioritized the use of technology in the classroom to enhance student engagement and access to learning. Tools like Delta Math, Desmos, and interactive iPads and Chromebooks were integrated into lessons, offering students personalized practice, real-time feedback, and opportunities to collaborate with peers. The use of ELMO projectors allowed for dynamic, interactive lessons that helped make abstract math concepts more accessible and engaging. By leveraging these technologies, students had more ways to interact with content, allowing them to work at their own pace, receive immediate assistance, and explore new concepts in innovative ways. In addition to technology, I implemented tutoring programs, peer mentoring, and after-school support sessions to provide students with additional resources. By fostering a culture of collaboration and continuous improvement, I ensured that all students had the support and tools they needed to succeed in math.
COMPUTER SCIENCE
As a school administrator, I was fortunate to be given the opportunity to develop the Computer Science program at Lane Tech, transforming it from a single teacher and one class to a robust department of 14 teachers offering 15 unique courses. A key initiative was the implementation of Mac carts in every CS, Art and Music lab, allowing students to engage in hands-on, project-based learning and inquiry-driven instruction. These labs are equipped with modern technology, enabling students to work on real-world problems and develop the skills needed to excel in the ever-evolving tech industry. This success led to Apple’s recognition of our programs, culminating in Lane Tech being selected as the host school for Apple’s iPad release event in 2018.
Lane Tech is a true college prep school where students have the opportunity to choose a major, and I am proud to say that since the inception of the Computer Science program in 2017, it has surpassed all other majors in the number of students pursuing this field. I’m especially proud of our G.E.M.S. (Girls in Engineering, Math, and Science) program, which has played a pivotal role in encouraging more female students to pursue STEM fields. Through G.E.M.S., we have helped many young women earn scholarships, acceptance into some of the most prestigious colleges in the country, and pursue careers in engineering, math, and computer science. This program has been instrumental in changing the narrative around what a computer scientist looks like, showing our students that STEM careers are for everyone, regardless of gender or background.
My commitment to diversity extends to both the student body and teaching staff, ensuring that students see themselves represented and feel empowered to pursue computer science. By fostering an inclusive environment and challenging traditional stereotypes, we are reshaping the landscape of computer science education at Lane Tech, creating opportunities for all students to thrive.
LANGUAGES
Lane Tech offers seven languages—Spanish, French, German, Italian, Mandarin, Japanese, and Arabic—along with AP-level courses in all languages. As an administrator, I led the Language Department’s transformation from traditional memorization-based methods to dynamic, communicative approaches such as Total Physical Response (TPR), Total Physical Response Storytelling (TPRS), and Comprehensible Input (CI). Recognizing the limitations of rote memorization, we implemented these research-backed strategies to promote deeper language acquisition through physical activity, storytelling, and exposure to input just above students’ current proficiency levels. To facilitate this shift, I organized extensive professional development opportunities, workshops, and ongoing collaboration among teachers, fostering a shared instructional approach. This has led to more engaged students who communicate more effectively and express themselves fluently in the target language.
In response to the increasing requirement of four years of foreign language for university admission, we adapted our teaching practices to better prepare students for AP exams and college readiness. Our emphasis on TPR, TPRS, and CI has resulted in students gaining proficiency in real-world language use and excelling in AP exams, positioning them for success in higher education. Additionally, we established the Seal of Biliteracy, which over 300 students earn annually, with numbers continuing to rise. This expansion and modernization of our language programs have empowered students to achieve high proficiency, making them competitive in an increasingly globalized world.
PHYSICAL EDUACATION
As an administrator, I led the transformation of the Physical Education Department from a traditional sports-based curriculum to a focus on strength, fitness, and conditioning, ensuring students developed lifelong health and wellness habits. Recognizing the need for a more inclusive and effective approach, we shifted our emphasis from team-based sports to individualized fitness goals, empowering students to take ownership of their physical well-being. Through professional development and curriculum redesign, we introduced new courses such as High-Intensity Training, Fit Female, Yoga, Strength and Conditioning, Dance, Weight Training, Fitness Walking, and Team Sports. These offerings provided students with diverse opportunities to engage in physical activity that aligned with their personal interests and long-term health goals.
This initiative was widely successful, as students not only learned how to properly use gym equipment but also gained essential skills in strength training, conditioning, and nutrition. The curriculum now emphasizes lifelong fitness practices, ensuring students understand proper workout techniques, injury prevention, and the importance of a balanced diet. By fostering a culture of wellness and individualized fitness, we have equipped students with the tools and knowledge to maintain a healthy lifestyle beyond high school. This shift has significantly increased student engagement in physical education, leading to healthier, more active lifestyles and a deeper understanding of personal fitness.
ART
As Art Department Administrator, I led the transformation of the department from a traditional focus (painting, drawing, photography, ceramics) to a contemporary curriculum integrating modern technology and digital media. Recognizing the evolving arts landscape and industry demand for digital skills, I developed and implemented new courses such as Digital Photography, Graphic Design, Metalsmithing, Digital Imaging, and Printmaking, preparing students for careers in design, media, and visual communications. This initiative included securing funding and overseeing the acquisition of updated technology, software, and equipment to support the new curriculum and ensure student access to industry-standard tools. Furthermore, I established Lane Tech’s first student art gallery, providing a dedicated space for showcasing student talent and hosting art shows, fostering confidence and artistic growth. To further elevate student artwork within the school and community, I redesigned key school spaces to serve as prominent showcase areas, featuring student work during events such as Open House.
MUSIC
I led the department’s evolution from a traditional focus on band, orchestra, and choir to a more contemporary curriculum incorporating technology-based courses. Recognizing student interest and the growing relevance of digital music skills, I developed and implemented new offerings such as Guitar, Piano, Studio Engineering, Hip Hop and a comprehensive Music Theory course. This expanded curriculum provided students with diverse musical experiences and prepared them for a wider range of musical pursuits. This initiative included securing funding and overseeing the acquisition of necessary instruments, software, and equipment to support the new courses and provide students with access to relevant technology. Furthermore, I fostered collaborations with other departments and community organizations to create performance opportunities and showcase student talent. The result was a more vibrant and inclusive music program that catered to diverse student interests and prepared them for success in the evolving music industry. As a result the school now has a full recording studio where many performances and concerts take place, and students practice recording, editing and producing the music.
Damir Ara Online Portfolio 