Dear Byron Community,

It is my pleasure to welcome you to the very first issue of ROAR!, Byron Schools' official quarterly magazine. Our goal with this publication is simple: to share the stories that define our schools, celebrate our students, educators, volunteers, and alumni, all while showcasing the incredible partnerships that make Byron a truly special place.

As someone who started my own journey in Byron as a kindergartner and now has the privilege of serving as Superintendent, I’ve seen firsthand how this community supports its schools, and how our schools, in turn, strengthen our community. ROAR! is here to highlight those connections, ensuring that every resident—whether you have children in our schools or not—gets a glimpse of the amazing work happening every day.

In this inaugural issue, you’ll find stories that exemplify the heart of Byron Schools. You’ll meet Deputy Emily Hardesty, our School Resource Officer, who is working not just to keep our schools safe, but to build trust and meaningful relationships with students. You’ll read about Principal Mike Sand at Byron Middle School, whose vision for whole-child development is helping students navigate their crucial formative years.

We also shine a light on the many programs and individuals shaping the future of our students. From the Work Program, which is giving students with special needs valuable real-world job experience, to Janet Dahlberg’s outdoor education initiatives at the Byron Forest Preserve, which are helping students reconnect with nature in hands-on, meaningful ways. You’ll also meet Ron Kroeger, better known as ‘Mister K,’ an 82-year-old community member whose passion for reading and music continues to inspire generations of students.

Of course, none of this would be possible without the countless teachers, staff, volunteers, and community partners who pour their energy into Byron Schools every day. Their dedication fuels the success of our students, and their stories deserve to be told. That’s why ROAR! exists—to celebrate the people and programs that make our schools and community thrive.

We invite you to explore these stories, stay connected with our schools, and take pride in being part of Byron’s legacy.

Thank you for your continued support of Byron Schools.

Buster Barton
Superintendent, Byron Schools