Principal Chris Chlebek has worked in the Plainfield school district for many years. He feels he has had the best of both worlds, working as a teacher in two of the high schools and as an Assistant Principal at East. However, his years of experience eventually led him to become the Principal here at Central.
“I don’t know if anyone really decides they want to be a principal. A lot of times in life, we grow into certain things and come into it based on our past experiences,” Chlebek, said.
“Mr. Chlebek brought to PHS some new perspectives and ideas as he worked in other buildings in the district,” Chari Rahn, secretary, said.
Chlebek is always willing to listen to students and staff. He has an unwavering dedication to the school and an ability to stay calm in tense situations, making him a very strong leader, according to members.
“Mr. Chlebek brings wisdom, integrity, and a strong work ethic to the building. These traits set a positive tone and serve as a model for both staff and students,” Joseph Schertz, assistant principal, said.
Staff members have many enjoyable moments with Chlebek.
“One of my favorite memories with Principal Chlebek was watching him greet students in the morning when a student correctly identified the song and artist playing over the speaker. Principal Chlebek was genuinely delighted and impressed that the student recognized a song from his era—the 1970s—and his enthusiasm in that moment was something I hadn’t seen,” Rich Meszaros, school officer, said.
Since Chlebek was a teacher in this building, some of the staff were once his students.
“Mr. Chlebek was actually my history teacher when I was in high school. My favorite memory was witnessing him do his legendary swan dive across the classroom. It only happened once. Andrew Jenson, ceramics teacher and alumnus, said. “My second favorite memory was debating with him who the better band was: U2 or Iron Maiden.”
Outside of school, Chlebek enjoys watching English soccer and reading. He grew up playing baseball and still watches from time to time, but his favorite thing to do is spend time with his family.
“I have a wife who is a computer analyst and three kids who are in college, who all graduated from Plainfield schools. I admire my kids, watching them try to figure it out and advance their education and careers. It is really amazing to see,” Chlebek, said.
He has many fond memories and experiences from throughout his career.
“My favorite memory here was being a teacher. You are always trying to find ways to keep students engaged. Those are always the best moments without question. You get a lot of laughs, maybe some tears, and some frustration along the way. But all of those memories are what I think about most.” Chlebek, said. “There is something about this place that understands community in a way that I don’t think some of the other schools do.”
