This week, Grayslake Community High School District 127 proudly honors two outstanding educators whose work exemplifies care, commitment, and student-centered innovation. Kevin Ball, School Counselor at Grayslake North, and Barry Goldman, School Counselor at Grayslake Central, were nominated for the 2025 Lake County Educator of the Year Award.
The two were nominated under the special category of School Mental Health Specialists, a recognition for professionals supporting student wellness through roles like counseling, social work, and psychology. Both were celebrated at a formal recognition dinner and award ceremony on May 7, hosted by the Lake County Regional Office of Education, and attended by district and building leadership.
Meet Kevin Ball, An Example of Support and Innovation
With over 16 years at Grayslake North High School, Kevin Ball has become a cornerstone of student support and innovation. His approach blends empathy and structure, providing students with personalized guidance that meets immediate needs and long-term goals. Known for his five-year planning initiative for freshmen, Ball empowers students to see beyond high school, envisioning paths that include career goals, post-secondary options, and personal growth.
Ball’s leadership shines through his work on anger management groups, the "New Knights" transition program for transfer students, and creating an electronic counseling appointment system that streamlined services and has since been adopted by other departments. He also serves as a mentor to students and colleagues, a coach, and the school’s SchooLinks Champion, ensuring students get the most out of college and career planning tools.
“Kevin’s unwavering dedication, heartfelt passion for our students, and the insightful guidance he offers to both students and colleagues have made him an indispensable member of our school community.” — Megan Licht, Associate Principal, Grayslake North High School.
Above all, Ball creates a safe and encouraging space for students to thrive. His presence is described by peers as “invaluable,” with a reputation for trust-building, forward-thinking, and heartfelt dedication to student success.
Meet Barry Goldman, A Beacon of Connection and Compassion
At Grayslake Central High School, Barry Goldman is widely regarded as a bridge-builder, connecting students not only to resources but to a deeper sense of belonging and purpose. He begins each school year by writing and mailing individual welcome cards to every new student he will serve, a small gesture with a big impact.
In addition to serving a full caseload of students and acting as a case manager for students with 504 plans, Goldman leads group counseling, college readiness events, and Wednesday night family counseling sessions. He also created Camp College, a summer workshop for seniors that provides intensive support in post-secondary planning.
Goldman’s leadership extends beyond campus. As a past president and current Communications Director for the Lake County Counselors Association (LCCA), he champions professional collaboration, celebrates National School Counseling Week with creativity and warmth, and uplifts peers through thoughtful recognition efforts.
“Barry is a compassionate and skilled professional who has made a profound impact on the well-being of students and the overall school community.” — Lori Mitchell, Student Services Department Chair, Grayslake Central High School.
Peers and supervisors describe Barry as having an “unwavering commitment to supporting students’ mental health needs” and say his impact is “widespread and everlasting.”
A Shared Legacy of Care
Barry and Kevin exemplify what it means to support the whole student, academically, socially, and emotionally. Their work ensures that Grayslake D127 students are not only prepared for life beyond high school but are also seen, supported, and empowered every step of the way.
We are incredibly proud to have them represent D127 and congratulate them on this well-deserved honor.