Shaka Rawls, the principal at Leo Catholic High School in Auburn Gresham, knew something was up on Monday when he saw all the cars in the school’s parking lot.What he didn’t know was that all those visitors, including friends, family and elected officials, were there to congratulate him for winning the Golden Apple Award for Excellence in Leadership, one of the most prestigious honors for Illinois principals.Visitors and students, many wearing orange Leo High School hoodies over their ties, filled the school’s auditorium for the surprise. They let out a joyous roar when Rawls walked through the doors. Blue pom-poms shook in the air. A wide smile spread across Rawls’ face when he realized what was happening. Students celebrate with a chant during a surprise announcement of the Golden Apple award to Principal Shaka Rawls at Leo High School.Anthony Vazquez/Sun-Times “The most important thing is to experience this with the students,” Rawls said. “The award is for leadership, but essentially the award is for the work that we’ve done. I’m sharing this award with my students and the faculty at Leo High School.”Rawls, principal at Leo since 2016, was selected as one of the leadership award winners from among nearly 100 nominees. Golden Apple winners, which will also include teachers, are being surprised with awards this month. All winners get a cash award of $5,000, and leaders also get $5,000 for their school.Under Rawls’ leadership, Leo seniors have a 100% college acceptance rate and the share of ninth graders who…
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