South Side principal surprised with Golden Apple Award

CHICAGO (WLS) -- When Shaka Rawls was hired as principal in 2016, Leo High School was on the brink of closure.

Ten years later, Leo has gone through a dramatic transformation, and Rawls was surprised with an exclusive award for educators.

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The auditorium at Leo High School in Auburn Gresham was buzzing with excitement, as students and staff got ready to cheer on their principal, who was picked to receive the Golden Apple Award for excellence in leadership.

"This award means more than just the recognitions. It means that we think that he is the right person to prepare the next generation of state educators," Golden Apple Foundation President Alan Mather said.

It's an announcement that was supposed be a surprise. But when the man of the hour arrived, it was clear nothing gets past the educator.

"I saw the parking lot was full when I pulled up; so I knew something was going on," Rawls said.

Rawls was selected from nearly 100 nominations of pre-K through 12th-grade school leaders in Illinois.

Leo was struggling when Rawls took the helm of the all-boys Catholic school 10 years ago.

Now, enrollment has climbed, test scores have improved and there's a 100 percent college acceptance rate for seniors.

His mission to uplift the school is personal. Rawls himself is a graduate of Leo.

"At the end of the day, y'all know I'm here for y'all," Rawls said.

Rawls emphasizes brotherhood, mentorship and opportunity, especially for students who may otherwise fall through the cracks.

"Every aspect of the school is exciting, and it's jumping. And we want to have fun in this building. Out there is dangerous for young Black and brown boys. So here is a safe space for them to feel loved. And I want to have a good time at work," Rawls said.

Rawls says he applied for the Golden Apple in 2022, but didn't get it. He says he used that as motivation to never give up on his goals.