Sycamore School District welcomes Ashley Friend as new Montgomery Elementary assistant principal

A significant highlight of the Sycamore Schools Board of Education meeting on April 23, 2025, was the introduction of Ashley Friend as the new Assistant Principal of Montgomery Elementary. Mr. Lewis, who led the introduction, praised Friend for her dedication to teaching and her ability to make every student feel valued. He noted that she was selected through a rigorous multi-round interview process, emerging as the top candidate for the role.

Friend, who previously taught at Mapletale Elementary, expressed her excitement about returning to the school where she attended as a child. She emphasized her eagerness to work with the staff and community at Montgomery Elementary, stating, "I'm ready to get to work, ready to get to know the people in the building and find ways to learn and find ways to contribute." Notably, she will also serve as the summer school principal, indicating a busy summer ahead as she transitions into her new administrative role.

The meeting also featured a presentation from the Sycamore High School robotics team, the Mockbusters, who showcased their achievements and ongoing projects. The team, which has grown significantly since its inception, highlighted their competitive success and community outreach efforts. They shared impressive statistics, including their ranking in the top 25% of teams worldwide and their commitment to mentoring younger students in robotics.

The Mockbusters' presentation underscored the importance of STEM education and community engagement, with team members discussing their innovative projects and fundraising efforts. Their outreach initiatives aim to inspire the next generation of problem solvers, demonstrating the positive impact of robotics programs in the Sycamore community.

Overall, the meeting celebrated both the leadership transition at Montgomery Elementary and the accomplishments of the robotics team, reflecting the district's commitment to educational excellence and community involvement.