Honoring the Memory of Principal Robert Collins: A Pillar of Hawthorn School District 73 (March 15, 1969 – September 28, 2023)
Vernon Hills, IL – The Hawthorn School District 73 community is grieving the loss of a dedicated educator and esteemed Principal, Robert Collins, from Vernon Hills, Illinois, who passed away on the night of September 28, 2023. The news was shared with deep sorrow through a heartfelt message on social media, revealing the peaceful passing of Robert, surrounded by his loving family.
Kathy Hitz Collins shared Robert Collins death news and wrote,
“Friends,It breaks my heart to share with you that Robert passed away peacefully last night. He was surrounded by family.Thank you for respecting our family’s privacy as the girls and I and our family process and grieve.I will share more information when services are planned.”
Robert J. Collins embarked on his educational journey as a high school teacher and later held the position of department chair of fine arts and social science. In 2008, he transitioned into an administrative role within Hawthorn School District 73. His commitment to education led him to various significant positions, starting as an assistant principal at Hawthorn Elementary South and eventually serving as the proud principal at Hawthorn Middle School North.
In April 2023, Robert Collins took on a new role, being elected to the Wauconda 118 Board of Education. His dedication to fostering personalized learning and a comprehensive curriculum for all students saw him present at esteemed institutions such as Harvard University and Syracuse University, as well as national conferences across Orlando, Philadelphia, Austin, and Memphis. Robert was honored with the Lake County Illinois Principal Association Principal of the Year award and was an active member of the IPA legislation committee.
Aside from his professional endeavors, Robert was a loving husband to Kathy Hitz Collins and a cherished father to his children. He was also a caring brother to Karin Collins Karecki. During his formative years at Buffalo Grove High School from 1984 to 1988, Robert actively participated in student government and the Buffalo Grove High School Expressions.
His educational journey continued at Millikin University from 1988 to 1992, where he obtained a degree in music and education, immersing himself in various university activities. Later, he pursued a Master’s Degree in School Leadership-Type 75 at Concordia University-River Forest, further enhancing his expertise in the educational domain.
Dane Petersen pour tribute, post reads:
“I received the very sad news last night. This was a photo from way back in the day at one of my Millikin University piano recitals. Such young kids… We had fantastic times, always filled with laughter, brought on by plenty of brutal honesty and sarcasm (shocker). Rest in power, Brother Robert Collins. AEKDB”
Even beyond the school environment, Robert Collins remained deeply connected to Vernon Hills, demonstrating a commitment to giving back to the community that shaped him and helped him grow.
The Hawthorn School District 73 family and the wider community join hands in mourning the loss of Principal Robert Collins, a beacon of educational excellence and a compassionate leader. His legacy will forever resonate within the hearts of those whose lives he touched.
