An initiative of Jasper County Schools
Weston Peno started his undergraduate study in art, several dreams removed from the world of education administration. “My mom taught for 35 years, and she tried to convince me to go into education at that time,” Weston says, then jokes, “I was a little younger and I was pretty stubborn.” He didn’t make the switch then, but when faced with the monotony and isolation of a sterilized office job right out of college, he began substitute teaching. “I fell in love with it,” he explains. “From the first day I stepped in, I said, ‘yep, this is what I need to do.’”
Newton's New
Man in Town
By Nate Fisher
The leadership role suits him better, as he’s on the brink of significant, constructive change in our district. In his first year as Dean of Students of the Junior High/High School and Athletic Director for the Junior High, Weston has adopted a two-pronged approach to laying the groundwork for the rest of his tenure. First, he commits to listening, arguing that whether one is a 20-year veteran or a rookie in administration, understanding the unique culture, student body, and faculty is non-negotiable. He aspires to end the academic year with an exhaustive knowledge of the district’s complexities, believing this mastery will set the stage for successful years to come. Secondly, he underscores the importance of relationship-building, not merely as a collective but on an individual level. Weston’s goal is to create an environment where conversations and interaction are infused with positivity. He sees these two objectives—comprehensive understanding and relationship cultivation—as the pillars that will allow him to accomplish his goals in subsequent years.
I had worked at places that had more of the city aspect, and I just don’t feel like I’m a fit for it. We live on a farm, so I have that appreciation for rural areas.
An Effingham native who taught there for seven years, Weston identifies living and working in a rural community like Jasper County as an easy transition. “I had worked at places that had more of the city aspect, and I just don’t feel like I’m a fit for it,” he explains. “We live on a farm. My wife, her family, they farm, so I have that appreciation for rural areas.” Students in larger metropolitan areas undoubtedly experience priceless interactions with fantastic teachers and staff, and Weston argues it should be no different for kids on this side of the pasture.
His words aren’t idle talk, as he has the track record to prove his dedication to advancing quality teacher employment, curriculum, and student opportunities. Weston will become Assistant Principal in the Spring, and he brings years of assisting teachers and kids to the table. As a member of Teach Plus, he’s worked alongside others to develop educational policy for the state. He has direct involvement in the National Coalition of Safe Schools, a movement dedicated to creating healthier and safer schools. During the height of the pandemic, he joined the consultancy group Teachers Unite and started and co-owns Illinois Teachers for Fair Retirement, an organization that creates curriculum so Illinois teachers can educate themselves on effective retirement practices.
Weston’s interactions with parents so far have been overwhelmingly positive, revealing a unique local attitude focused on supporting our children’s educational journey. Weston points out that this vow is not just about being in a smaller town; it’s about protecting the quality of life we cherish as a community. One benefit he’s observed is the level of safety here that allows students to walk home without worry, fostering a sense of friendship and camaraderie that enhances the overall educational experience. He believes that this exceptional community spirit provides an excellent backdrop for learning and growth.
“I get to witness that even further tonight,” Weston grins. He’s attending his first Newton Eagles football game tonight. “I’m looking forward to it. I hear it’s grand.”
Though his career path strayed from the artistic side, he now paints with a different brush. The illustrations he’ll create here are family-based and represent a real, personal investment in his district. He and his wife, also a teacher, are close to welcoming a newborn to complement their 14-month-old. What can we say? It never hurts to have a few more Eagles around.
