CHSD 218 hires Andrea Azzo as communications specialist; board honors student composer Cody Peck

The Board of Education of Community High School District 218 announced the hiring of Andrea Azzo as the district's new public relations, marketing and communications specialist and recognized a student composer at its Jan. 16, 2025, meeting.

Why it matters: The new communications hire will handle district public relations and family outreach; recognizing student achievement is part of the board's regular practice to highlight contributions to school culture.

Board members introduced Andrea Azzo and described her background: "Andrea Azzo will be joining us as our new public relations, marketing, and communication specialist. With 10 years experience in dynamic communication environments, Andrea brings exceptional skills with a proven track record of success. She holds a bachelor's of arts in journalism from Northern Illinois University," a board member said. The board member also noted Azzo's membership in the Illinois chapter of the National School Public Relations Association and her involvement in the local PTA.

The board also presented a commendation adopted by board order in January 2025 to Shepherd High School student Cody Peck. The board said Peck wrote an original musical composition to commemorate the passing of the baton from the retired band director, Chris Bittlich, to Ken George, and that Shepherd's band performed the original score at a holiday concert. "I heard it. It was beautiful," one board member said. Principal Dr. Tim Baker presented Peck with a plaque.

Ending: The board welcomed Azzo to the district and congratulated Peck; the accommodations were approved on the consent agenda earlier in the meeting.