Celebration at Scott Elementary School

Tuesday marked a joyous occasion at Scott Elementary School in Naperville. The atmosphere was lively with upbeat music playing from portable speakers. Staff and students welcomed head custodian Dean Baki back with noise makers, blue-and-yellow pom poms, and cheerful balloons.

Baki, affectionately known as Mr. Dean, received an enthusiastic welcome after a six-month medical leave. He sat below a sign at the school entrance, wearing a crown that read, “The king is back.” As students and parents arrived, they expressed their happiness with hugs, high fives, and fist bumps.

A Cherished Member of the Community

Scott Elementary Principal Tracey Ratner explained that the celebration aimed to show Baki his importance to the school community. “It’s crucial for him to understand his value to us,” Ratner said. “We wanted this day to be truly special for him.”

Baki had a medical emergency in February. Feeling unwell and with a rising body temperature, he drove himself to Edward Hospital in Naperville. His arteries were severely blocked, and survival odds were low. Months of recovery followed.

Baki, 68, views Scott Elementary as his home, having worked there for 15 years. “I missed being here during my recovery,” he said. “Retirement is not on my mind. I belong here with the amazing people of this school.”

Community Bonds

The school staff decorated the drop-off area with balloons and signs, declaring Baki “Super Dean.” This warm gesture was matched by the students carrying photos of him to celebrate his return.

Ratner noted the consistent support from school officials throughout Baki’s leave. Updates were shared with his family, and students made cards and blankets for him. “He’s the heart of our school,” Ratner said. “He genuinely cares for the students beyond the job obligations.”

Baki attended the school’s end-of-year assembly in May, receiving a hero’s welcome. As a veteran, he is a guest of honor during Veterans Day assemblies, showcasing his connection to the community.

Voices of Appreciation

Students and staff expressed their excitement at his return. Heidi Ruppenthal, a learning commons paraprofessional, shared, “We feel complete with him here. He’s irreplaceable.”

Fourth-grader Jeffery Chiros appreciated Mr. Dean’s kindness and humor. “Lots of kids adore him. Teachers respect him. He is well known,” he said. Peyton Stelzer, another fourth-grader, saw him as a mentor, noting his helpful nature.

Daniel Beil shared a heartfelt sentiment, “Without him, the school would crumble. I’m thrilled he’s back.” Such testimonies reflect the deep bonds Baki has built over the years at Scott Elementary.