About the Teachers

 

Mr. Kastor - Director of Bands

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Matthew Kastor has been the Director of Bands since the school opened on August 23, 2004.  In 2009, he was appointed Department Chair for Fine Arts. Before teaching at Lakes, Mr. Kastor was on the staff at Oak Forest High School (2000-2004), Kankakee High School (1998-2000) and Palombi Middle School (1994-1998).  He holds a Bachelor's Degree in Music Education from The Illinois State University (1994), a Masters Degree in Music Education Supervision and Administration from the University of Illinois (2002) and a Certificate of Advanced Study in Educational Leadership from National Louis University (2008).  

 

Recently, Mr. Kastor was recognized by the Illinois State Board of Education with an Award of Meritorious Service through the “Those Who Excel” program for his work as a School Administrator in the state of Illinois.  Additionally, the Lakes Eagle Booster Club awarded him the James McKay Award in 2017, for his support to the growth and advancement of Lakes Community High School. He values and treasures the opportunity to teach and learn as a stakeholder at Lakes Community High School.

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Mr. Hile - Orchestra Director, Assistant Band Director

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Mr. Hile is currently in his fifth year as the assistant band director and orchestra director at Lakes Community High School in Lake Villa, IL. He teaches AP Music Theory, symphonic band, orchestra, music production, and instrument technique classes.

 

Hile’s interest in music began when he was required to join band as a French Horn player his freshman year at Highland Park High School by his high school band director, Dr. James Hile. At Highland Park, he was afforded many life-changing leadership and music opportunities, including performance trips to both Japan and China. 

 

In 2014, Hile graduated Summa Cum Laude from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign with a degree in Instrumental Music Education. Upon graduation, he assisted with several high school band programs, including Niles West High School, Niles North High School, Streator Township High School, and Highland Park High School while beginning his teaching career at Hinsdale Middle School teaching band and orchestra. His professional affiliations are with ILMEA, NAFME, and the National Band Association. Hile currently lives in Deerfield with his highly energetic border collie, Zoe.