It would likely be very difficult, if not impossible, to find anyone in Hinsdale-Clarendon Hills Elementary District 181 who would be surprised that Kristin Cummings, principal of Prospect School in Clarendon Hills, has been named a finalist for the 2025 Golden Apple Award for Excellence in Leadership.
The award honors exemplary performance in school leadership by a principal or head of school who has had a significant and sustained positive impact on the school, created a culture of inclusivity, and delivered dramatic student growth, according to information from the Golden Apple Foundation. That organization is committed to preparing, honoring, and retaining great educators who advance educational opportunities for students.
Cummings is one of six finalists from a field of more than 85 nominations in Illinois. One or two winners will be announced in the spring.
“I am incredibly honored and humbled to be named a finalist for the Golden Apple Leader of Excellence Award,” Cummings said. “This recognition is a testament to the hard work, dedication and passion of the entire school community, our teachers, staff, students and families who make our school a place of growth, collaboration and excellence.
“As a principal, my greatest joy comes from empowering educators, fostering a positive learning environment, and helping students reach their full potential. Being recognized for this work reaffirms my commitment to leading with integrity, innovation, and heart.”
Cummings said she believes a great principal leads by example, fostering a school culture built on collaboration, trust, and continuous improvement.
“They play a critical role in creating a positive climate where teachers feel empowered, students feel safe and valued, and the entire school community is united in a shared vision of success,” she said.
Speaking to her own strengths as a principal, Cummings said one of her greatest strengths is a commitment to being a true partner in education with her staff.
“I prioritize collaboration by meeting with grade-level teams weekly to support instructional planning, discuss student needs and develop strategies for success,” she said. “I work alongside teachers, providing guidance, support, and encouragement, while also celebrating their successes. By fostering a culture of teamwork, trust, and shared leadership, I strive to create an environment where both educators and students can thrive.”
And that is what Cummings has done at Prospect.
“She is a great leader,” said Beth Nolin, a second-grade teacher who has been at Prospect for 20 years. “She is committed to excellence, she knows her students. The decisions she makes as our leader are deliberate and align with specific goals to make our school a better place, and she collaborates with us as a staff, actively participating in setting our students up for success.”
Becky Swanson, Prospect School teacher-librarian who has been at Prospect for 14 years, said Cummings is dedicated to fostering a positive school culture at Prospect.
“Each year, she develops an overarching theme for staff and students,” Swanson said. “This year’s theme, ‘Be Here, Be You, Belong,’ promotes inclusivity and positivity.
“She also brings joy to the staff in different ways, such as by organizing themed holiday activities in December, complete with games and treats.”
Swanson said that along with building a strong sense of community, Cummings actively supports teachers in learning and implementing strategies that help students succeed.
“Additionally, she values and encourages staff input, incorporating their ideas and involving different team members to create an innovative learning environment.”
Cummings said her interest in being an educator goes back to when she was an elementary school student.
“I have always had a passion for working with students, fostering a positive learning environment, and helping each individual reach their full potential,” she said. “My passion for education grew even stronger in high school when my older sister, who taught in Naperville, invited me to visit her third grade classroom.
“Those experiences of helping her students, witnessing their excitement for learning, and seeing the impact a great teacher can have solidified my desire to become an educator. I have always been driven by the joy of seeing students have those ‘light bulb’ moments, creating an inclusive and welcoming environment, and inspiring all students to strive for their very best.”
Golden Apple Award winners receive a cash award of $10,000, with $5,000 for the school leader and $5,000 for the school for a project of the recipient’s choosing, according to the Golden Apple Foundation.
Chuck Fieldman is a freelance reporter for Pioneer Press.