March 16, 2022

10th Anniversary Spotlight: Interview with Chelsea Easter ›

A principal is commonly defined as the staff member with the greatest responsibility for the management of the school. Chelsea Easter is so much more than that. She is an…

February 15, 2022

10th Anniversary Spotlight: Interview with Alumni Coach Andrew Brasher ›

After just two weeks of working at Playworks, Andrew “Coach Brash” Brasher knew what he wanted to do. He wanted to belong to a school community. Playworks put him in…

November 16, 2021

10th Anniversary Spotlight: Alumni Coach Patrice Whitfield ›

Patrice Whitfield embodies a Playworker. Now a member of the Illinois Playmakers Board, Patrice continues building upon her legacy of service. We invite you to join us and celebrate Playworks…

February 21, 2020

What’s for league tonight?… It’s FUN vs. FUN! ›

Growing up, some of my favorite childhood and school memories are from sports – from playing peewee soccer all the way to Varsity teams in high school. As I’m sure…

December 19, 2019

Step into the Sneakers of a Junior Coach ›

Recess is simultaneously one of the most treasured and most limited times during an elementary school day. Each of the 25 minutes students spend on the playground is precious, so…

December 12, 2019

The Power of Junior Coach ›

Coach Stephanie’s student, Cameron, had so much potential – she just didn’t always know how to use her leadership skills in safe and healthy ways. At times Cameron could be…

December 12, 2019

A Week in the Life of a Flex Coach ›

Greetings Playworks friends! My name is Coach Stella and this year I held the position of Flex Coach with Playworks Illinois. As Flex Coach, I travel to various partner schools…

November 13, 2018

Less Time Arguing, More Time Playing ›

Junior Coach Nyyon is a ro-sham-bo rockstar! Anytime a conflict comes up, particularly during games like foursquare and switch, she is quick to step in and remind students to use…