Teacher, Don Krystof, Earns the Rising Star Award!
Barb Dawson • December 19, 2023

Congratulations, Mr. Krystof!

Congratulations were in order this past November when Montini Catholic Math teacher, Don Krystof, was awarded the 2023 Mathematics Teachers' Association of Chicago's Rising Star Award. The award was presented at the association's annual Fall Dinner Meeting in November at Marist High School.


Mr. Krystof received the nomination for this award from Montini Math Department Chair, Christine McManus. "We were most impressed with the heartfelt and enthusiastic praise that was expressed in Mrs. McManus' nomination letter," said Jeffrey Nicholson, Selection Subcommittee member. "Don is truly deserving of the Rising Star Award!"


"Don does everything! He coaches sports (Girls Tennis), works with Montini's Student Government members, coaches our Math Team and is a member of JJI (a 2-year regional formation program). He is a Kairos leader, a Eucharistic Minister, a board member of the MTA, and so much more," said Mrs. McManus. "To say that he is involved would be an understatement. He helps lead academic, spiritual, and athletic groups in order to develop all aspects of our students. He also wants to better himself and the adults at our school via his work with JJI and faculty socials. He exemplifies the involvement needed to have a successful career at a Catholic school."


​Her praise continued. "​O​ur students love Don! He is very well respected not only for his intelligence and ability to communicate but also for his willingness to go above and beyond to help struggling students​!​  He is an excellent teacher and respected member of our ​(Math) department. Don has taught almost every course that we offer. He is able to challenge our smartest students, engage our reluctant learners, and explain things in a manner that our lowest students will make progress. His lesson plans are impeccable and he is always prepared. He takes a lead at department meetings and collaborates with his peers​!​"

​According to Mrs. McManus, Mr. Krystof has had such a tremendous impact on ​M​ontini Catholic's school community ​​from the day he began his role as a teacher in 2015. ​"I cannot imagine what he will be able to achieve in the next twenty years or more. Don​ truly ​is a rising star!​"

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By Barb Dawson May 19, 2025
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By Barb Dawson May 14, 2025
This month, Montini Catholic's Band is celebrating a National Champion (Class A) title in the National Catholic Band Association's national band competition. "We are incredibly proud," said the Lasallian college preparatory high school's Music Director Donnie Glowinski. "This is the first time in school history that Montini Catholic has earned this title." Each year, Catholic high schools from across the country are invited to submit performance recordings to be adjudicated by a panel of expert judges. "This prestigious honor is a testament to the hard work, dedication, and talent of our student musicians. Their commitment to excellence has brought great pride to our school community," added Glowinski. "Every year, we work on becoming better musicians, and every year, the band rises to the challenge. I am so unbelievably proud of the work this group has done this year and everything they have accomplished. I am really looking forward to the future to see what these students will be able to do!" In the summer of 1953 a small group of concerned band directors, led by Director of Bands Robert F. O’Brien, met on the campus of the University of Notre Dame to discuss the Catholic School Band, its particular problems, and what might be done to further its development. Fr. Theodore Hesburgh Notre Dame President, gave the welcome speech. Mr. O’Brien then proposed goals for the organization and the NCBA was born. Today, NCBA's office is located at Villanova University Office of Music Activities. The NCBA recognizes the value of music within the Catholic school community. Their mission is to establish high musical, educational and ethical standards in Catholic schools' band programs. Image Above: Montini Catholic band members front row l to r: Olivia Marin, Kayli Gergen, Maggie Cyze, Miranda Meier, Sarah Gudmundson, Camile Arnold and Abby Milas; Second row: Roberto Williamson, Margaret Palkoner, Chris Reyes, Michael Patacsil, Maddy Aguilar, Lailah Stubblefield, Simon Poulin, Raphael Patacsil, Mason Maldonado, Cristian Alcantara, Kevin Barrett and Andrew Shin; Back row: Colin Murray, Tyler Whitlock, EJ Schicker, Lucas Van Witzenburg and Oghosa Idemudia Not pictured: Julia Gergen and Eric Hu
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