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About Administration
Dr. Ralph P. Kober
Principal
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When asked of his experience as principal of Traughber Junior High School, Dr. Kober shares, “I have had the honor of being principal of this exceptional school dating back to the 96 – 97 school year. This has been a wonderful journey as I have been witness to the many challenges, opportunities, and accomplishments the school, district, and community have experienced during that time. I look forward to continuing our course of setting the goals which are focused on preparing our students for their future. Given the education received in our school, strengthened by the support and collaboration of our parents and community, the opportunities our students have are limited only by their imaginations and personal goals.”
In addition to his role as principal, Dr. Kober is an adjunct instructor at Aurora University where he teaches educational leadership courses. He has been involved with the master’s degree program since 2002 and has enjoyed the unique impact he has on future leaders through the interactions with his students.
Dr. Kober retired from the United State Marine Corps in 1999 having attained the rank of Gunnery Sergeant and serving our country for twenty two years. His experiences in the Marine Corps has helped to shape and sustain the leadership skills and focus necessary to address the many challenges facing a school principal.
His educational training includes a Bachelor of Education degree from University of Illinois, Master of Education in Special Education from U of I, along with Master of Education in School Administration from Northern Illinois University. Dr. Kober earned the Doctorate of Education degree in Educational Leadership from NIU in May of 2000.
Dr. Kober has been married to his wife, Joan, for over 25 years, and he is appreciative of the support and understanding she brings to his role as principal. He has many hobbies and interests including flying his friends and family on site-seeing trips, having earned a Private Pilot license in 2005, listening to a wide array of music, and reading a variety of books and literature.
Amy Zientek
Assistant Principal
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Ms. Zientek started her career in the Oswego district when she student taught at Traughber JHS and Boulder Hill Elementary. Upon graduation, she started teaching special education in 4th and 5th grades at Boulder Hill. Two years later, she moved to Traughber, where she has been teaching for the last 7 years. In 2005, she also became the athletic director for Traughber. Most recently, Ms. Zientek accepted the Interim Assistant Administrator position.
Ms. Zientek received her Bachelors Degree in special education from Northern Illinois University and her Masters Degree in Educational Leadership from Aurora University.
Ms. Zientek enjoys spending time with friends and family. She loves the outdoors (especially near water), as well as the Chicago White Sox!
Rene Garren
Assistant Principal
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Mrs. Rene Garren began her career at Traughber working as a teacher’s aide in the Special Education department. After starting a family, Rene became a 7th grade Math and Science teacher. Since 2001, we have had the pleasure of Rene serving as our Assistant Principal. Currently, Rene is also working as the districts mentor coordinator.
Born and raised in Oswego, Rene earned her Bachelor of Science and Masters Degree from Eastern Illinois University. She met her husband, Ross, at EIU and married in 1986. Together, they have 2 daughters, Meredith and Hillary
In her spare time, Rene enjoys collecting frog memorabilia, shopping and spending time with her family.
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