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English

Department Contact Information

Brian Wise

Department Chair, DHS
bwise@dist113.org
224-632-3121

Dr. Leonard DePasquale

Department Chair, HPHS
ldepasquale@dist113.org
224-765-2121

Overview

The District 113 English Departments are dedicated to fostering every student’s growth as strategic readers, writers, communicators, and lifelong learners. We believe that language is the foundation for unlocking a student’s potential and empowering them to navigate the complexities of both academic and personal experiences. Through a rigorous, relevant, and coherent curriculum anchored in best practices, we provide challenging reading, writing, speaking, and research opportunities.

Our approach ensures all students have access to engaging instruction and supportive learning environments. We employ diverse instructional strategies, including technology integration, to help students strengthen existing skills, develop new competencies, and build resilience and independence.

Students will:

  • Develop critical thinking and social-emotional skills to foster positive relationships and self-awareness.
  • Engage with a variety of media, literary styles, and voices, reflecting diverse perspectives and their own identities.
  • Navigate differing viewpoints. 
  • Reflect on their growth to identify opportunities for improvement.
  • Build classical and contemporary literacy skills necessary for participation in a democratic society and global community.

Our English Departments strive to model the tenets of effective teaching and learning through ongoing professional development, mentoring, and collaboration. By creating a curriculum that inspires responsible citizenship, ethical principles, and respect, we prepare students to think critically, communicate effectively, and connect meaningfully within and beyond the classroom.

For assistance with English course selection or teacher recommendations, please contact the department chair or your current English teacher.

English Courses