District 88 appoints new Assistant Principal at Willowbrook

During its Feb. 26 meeting, the District 88 Board of Education approved the administration’s recommendation to name Joseph Helton (pictured above) as Willowbrook’s new Assistant Principal, effective July 1.

Helton is a Dean at Addison Trail and has had an amazing impact on the students, staff and community in his first year with the school. Although Helton is a new staff member at District 88, he is certainly a familiar face, as he has been part of the culture of the district since he was a toddler. Helton is the middle son of the late Dr. Scott Helton, beloved District 88 Superintendent who passed away in December 2020.

Helton began his career at Morton West High School, where he taught special education, coached football and was the head wrestling coach. He continued his passion for athletics when he came to Addison Trail and coached football and wrestling for the Blazers.

“Helton quickly connected with and engaged students and families, and his positive influence has been impressive in his short time as an educator,” said Dr. Daniel Krause, Willowbrook Principal. “We couldn’t be more excited to welcome him to the administrative team, and we look forward to Helton having a long career in District 88.”

Helton earned his bachelor’s degree in Special Education from Elmhurst University and his master’s degree in principal leadership from Southern Illinois University Edwardsville.

"I want to build strong connections with our staff and students," Helton said. "I want to collaborate with our staff to make the best decisions for our students individually and as a school. My goal is to enhance the comprehensive system with the Pupil Personnel Services (PPS) staff to ensure student success at Willowbrook High School. I am most looking forward to meeting the students and getting to know the Willowbrook community – it is filled with an amazing culture that I can’t wait to be involved in."

Helton lives in Villa Park with his family.

"I am surrounded by educators and family who are just as excited about this opportunity as I am – especially my wife, Lizzy Helton (Kalal), who's a Willowbrook alumna, and my son, JT Helton, future Warrior."