Hawthorne Elementary School Families,
It is an honor to serve as the Principal of Hawthorne Elementary School. I am excited to partner with each of our families to support your child’s growth and development, and I look forward to a year filled with meaningful learning and shared success. I believe that every child can reach their full potential when the right supports are thoughtfully aligned with their individual needs. By fostering a passion for learning early, we equip each student with the tools for lifelong curiosity, growth, and achievement.
I earned my Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education from the University of Illinois at Chicago in 2006, where I was also a member of the swimming and diving team. During my time there, I obtained endorsements in English as a Second Language (ESL) and Special Education. I pursued a science endorsement for middle school at the University of Chicago and later earned a Master’s degree in Educational Leadership from National Louis University. Recently, I completed the Superintendent Preparation Program through Northern Illinois University, and most recently, I am working towards an Ed.D. in Educational Administration at NIU.
Before joining CUSD 200 in 2019, I spent 12 years with Chicago Public Schools as a special education teacher, case manager, and primary team leader. I am thrilled to be part of the District 200 family and to serve at Hawthorne—the little school with the big heart, where students, staff, and families work together to create an incredible learning environment.
I am looking forward to an amazing 2025–2026 school year and to partnering with all of you to make it a year of growth, connection, and achievement.
Sincerely,
Holly Zimmer
Degrees and Certifications:
University of Illinois-Chicago
B.A. Elementary Education
Endorsements
Social Sciences, ESL, LBS1
University of Chicago
Endorsements
Science
National Louis University
M.A. Educational Leadership
Type 75