We are thrilled to announce that our very own Principal Marian Strok was featured in the Chicago Public Schools district leadership newsletter as part of Mosley’s Moment, a weekly spotlight honoring exceptional school leaders across Chicago.
This district recognition comes as Principal Strok celebrates a landmark milestone: 50 years in education, including 31 dedicated years serving Chicago Public Schools—with 20 of those years leading our community as principal, including her impactful years right here at Evergreen Academy Middle School.
A lifelong South Side resident, Principal Strok’s deep roots in Bridgeport & McKinley Park shape her community-centered leadership style. Known for treating students, staff, and families like extended family, she maintains an open-door policy, a commitment to social-emotional development, and an inclusive culture where everyone is welcomed and supported. Her impact is clear not only in our thriving school community, but also in the steady stream of returning alumni who visit years after graduating.
Under her leadership, Evergreen Academy Middle School has thrived as an exemplary STEAM demonstration school and has earned recognition as a National Forum School to Watch since 2010. Beyond Evergreen Academy, Principal Strok continues to shape the future of education by mentoring rising administrative leaders throughout the Chicago district.
Her guiding philosophy is best expressed in her favorite quote:
“They don’t care what you know until they know that you care.”
On behalf of the entire Evergreen Academy family—students, staff, parents, and alumni—we congratulate Principal Strok on this well-deserved district honor and thank her for half a century of dedicated service to Chicago’s students!