Robert Carlo took over as superintendent of schools for Darien School District 61 on July 1, replacing Warren Johnson.

Prior to his appointment, Carlo served as assistant superintendent for curriculum and instruction for the district, comprised of three schools: Eisenhower Junior High School, DeLay School and Lace School.

Carlo began his teaching career in 1987 at Lace School, then, after stints in River Forest, Tinley Park and Summit Hill School District in Frankfort, returned to District 61 as principal at Lace School.

He will continue to act as the director of curriculum while taking on the duties of superintendent.

“The focus will continue to be providing the best education possible to our students,” Carlo said. “Doing the right things for kids will continue — we won’t lose that focus.”

Carlo said he learned a valuable lesson from his father, Robert A. Carlo, who was an educator for more than 20 years before his death at age 49.

“I could see that he enjoyed what he did, and it didn’t really seem like work to him,” Carlo said. “It is nice to this day to bump into people who knew my father and talk about him 20 years later.”

The biggest challenge he and District 61 face is finance, and having to deal with unfunded mandates, Carlo said.

“Fortunately, with my experience within the district and knowing everybody here, there should be a very short, smooth learning curve,” Carlo said.

Notable
• Carlo helped create curriculum committees comprised of teachers to help develop the district’s curriculum in Math, Science, Reading and Writing.
• Was a gymnast at Oak lawn High School
• Carlo oversees a $17 million budget, three schools and 1,600 students

& quotable
“No one person can do it alone. Education is a collaborative effort among teachers, students, administrators, parents, the entire community.”

Philosophy
“It’s fundamental: treat other people the way you would want to be treated, with respect and dignity. You need to be confident in yourself and believe in yourself.”

Favorites
HOBBIES Spending time with the family, vacationing in Florida, working out
FOOD Spaghetti, anything Italian
SPORTS TEAM Chicago White Sox
PLAYER  Carlton Fisk