Chicago, IL (September 19, 2007)—Thomas J. Sedor, principal of Flossmoor’s Infant Jesus of Prague Elementary School, has been named a 2007 National Distinguished Principal by the National Association of Elementary School Principals (NAESP) and the U.S. Department of Education. Sedor is one of three Catholic school principals in the nation, and one of two elementary school principals in the State of Illinois, to receive the honor this year.

According to Dr. Nicholas Wolsonovich, superintendent of Catholic schools in the Archdiocese, “Thomas Sedor’s leadership and service during the past 26 years demonstrates how one innovative and dedicated person has influenced the success of Infant Jesus of Prague School by strengthening its Catholicity, excellence and vitality, which are the essence of Catholic education in the Archdiocese of Chicago.”

In October, Sedor will travel to Washington, D.C. for two days of activities planned to honor the educators named at the elementary and middle levels. Criteria for selection of the principals requires that the honorees are active principals of schools that have firmly established community ties with parents and local business organizations. Sedor’s co-workers acknowledge that his vision for the future and leadership abilities helped Infant Jesus of Prague School win Blue Ribbon Awards in 1999 and 2004.

Sedor earned his Master’s degree in education administration from Chicago State University, and is a recipient of the National Catholic Educational Association’s Dr. Robert J. Kealey Distinguished Principal Award in 2006, as well as Archdiocesan awards for Leadership Recognition in Catechetical Ministry. He has also earned the NAESP’s Leadership Award. Sedor and his wife reside in Mokena. They have four grown children and seven grandchildren. Four of the Sedor grandchildren attend Infant Jesus of Prague School.