MECHANICS GROVE ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

1200 N MIDLOTHIAN RD MUNDELEIN, ILLINOIS 60060

PHONE: 847-949-2712
FAX: 847-949-2711
DR KATHLEEN MILLER
MR ANDY HENRIKSON
PRINCIPAL
SUPERINTENDENT

March 6, 2015
To Whom It May Concern,
It is a great honor to recommend to you Ms. Erika Inka, one of the most gifted teachers that I
have encountered. As Principal of Mechanics Grove Elementary School, I hired Ms. Inka in
2008, as a first-year teacher. She graduated from an ISU Professional Development School
where she spent her senior year as an exceptional student teacher. She continues to work with a
commitment to make a difference, and with the passion to inspire each child to reach beyond his
or her potential. As a professional, she continues to grow exponentially each year, taking
advantage of professional development opportunities that create rigorous outcomes. Ms. Inka
connects with parents, children and staff developing trusting relationships with a palpable level of
integrity and character. She represents the hallmark of an outstanding role model for others.
Our school is a Lighthouse for Leadership school. We represent one of 119 schools worldwide
that exemplify leadership, 21st century learning with rigorous academics, and measurable growth
for each individual. Ms. Inka was instrumental in leading our Lighthouse Teacher Team to
achieve this recognized status. As a leader, Ms. Inka collaborates effectively using Baldridge
decision-making tools. She has left huge footprints in our school community.
In addition, her passion for science, technology, engineering, and math inspires our entire team to
learn more, do more, problem-solve and research rigorous topics that challenge the brightest
minds. This year, Ms. Inka trained at the Illinois Math Science Academy in their STEM Fusion
program. Seeing the excitement in our Fusion students eyes while working as a scientist on
problem-based learning projects fueled their fire. She is a catalyst of change, empowering all
stakeholders to achieve the unthinkable! Engagement has never been so high! An electrical
energy radiates from our fifth grade as students choose topics, research them and transfer her
passion into incredible outcomes. I know you will find her a remarkable teacher who creates
trusting relationships and focuses on innovation that generates motivation within a dynamic
learning environment.
I unequivocally recommend Ms. Inka for a position in your district. If you should seek further
information regarding this remarkable candidate, please free to call me at 847-309-0741.
Kindest regards,
Kathleen L. Miller Ed.D
Kathleen L. Miller, Ed.D.
Principal, Mechanics Grove Elementary School