Principal's Message
Welcome to Old Post Elementary School!
For nearly 30 years, our school has worked to live out our mission of empowering students to learn and responsibly participate in a continuously changing world—understanding that this must be done through collaboration among school, home, and community. I consider it a privilege to have served the students, staff, and families of Old Post since 2019. Over the past five years, I have been fortunate to witness our students’ smiles, silliness, and eagerness to learn. They inspire me daily.
I came to SD 308 in 2013, where I began as principal of Boulder Hill Elementary School. Prior to my time in the district, I was a teacher, coach, and assistant principal in St. Charles and principal in Downers Grove.
Our student-centered staff works collaboratively to create safe and empowering learning environments. We build positive relationships with students and families, recognizing that trust and connection are essential to academic and emotional growth. Through regular collaboration among teachers, specialists, and support staff, we design instruction and interventions that meet the diverse needs of our learners.
We are committed to breaking down barriers—whether academic, social-emotional, or cultural—so that every student can thrive. This includes providing access to appropriate resources, differentiated instruction, and consistent social-emotional support. Our staff embraces inclusive practices by honoring each student’s background and needs, ensuring everyone has a place and a voice in our school community.
We also strive to foster engagement by creating classrooms where students are active participants in their learning. We use engaging instructional strategies, encourage student voice, and promote curiosity and critical thinking. My hope for every student is that they develop the grit to persevere through challenges, and that each day they feel truly heard, cared for, and supported—both academically and emotionally—by the adults around them.
-Mike Mitchinson, Principal
