September 23, 2025
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Roxana Senior High School Recognized as an Illinois Democracy School
Naperville, IL – September 22, 2025 – Roxana Senior High School (RHS) has been officially recognized as an Illinois Democracy School at the Annual Convening held yesterday at the NIU Conference Center in Naperville. This prestigious designation is awarded to schools that demonstrate a deep and ongoing commitment to civic learning, student voice, and democratic engagement.
Representing Roxana Senior High School at the convening were Principal Jason Dandurand and teachers Logan Ridenour, Kristin Schrewe, and Thomas Hill.
“This honor is really about recognizing civic learning and teaching across our entire campus,” said Principal Dandurand. He highlighted several exemplary initiatives that contributed to the recognition, including:
Science teacher Ms. Hanneken’s leadership with the Madison County Green Schools initiative, promoting balance and sustainability on campus and throughout the region.
Mr. Ogle’s work in the Career and Technical Education department, where students design and build tiny homes for individuals in need.
Mrs. Gress’s efforts implementing a Best Buddies program to strengthen inclusion and peer support across the student body.
Mrs. Suze Gibson’s role as History Club sponsor (2024-25), creating year-round civic learning opportunities for students.
Mrs. Gibson and Mrs. Lish-Vazquez’s leadership as Student Council sponsors, guiding RHS Student Council to earn the distinction of National Council of Excellence in 2025.
Principal Dandurand also recognized the collective dedication of the entire RHS faculty, with special acknowledgement of Social Science teacher Mr. Logan Ridenour, who has championed the Democracy School initiative and advanced its core principles. These principles include fostering a culture of excellence for all, embedding inquiry as the primary mode of learning, and ensuring the practice of constitutional democracy and student agency.
“Becoming an Illinois Democracy School is a reflection of the passion and commitment of our teachers and students who strive to make civic engagement part of everyday learning at Roxana,” Dandurand added.
With this recognition, Roxana Senior High School joins a select group of Illinois schools leading the way in preparing students to be informed, engaged, and responsible citizens.