All in 220: Chris & Tim Dunn
The late Tim Dunn had strong roots in Barrington. As a lifelong resident and the grand-nephew of Arnett C. Lines, he was a keeper of Barrington’s rich history and the history of Barrington 220 schools.
Together, he and his wife Chris worked a combined nearly 50 years as educators in Barrington 220. Chris was a first-grade teacher at Countryside Elementary from 1989 until she retired in 2015. Tim started working in the district in 1987 as the Social Studies Department Chair at BHS, a position he held until he retired in 2008. Tim’s memories and knowledge of the district were instrumental when the Village of Barrington celebrated its sesquicentennial in 2015.
“Tim shared his deep knowledge of Barrington’s history in the “Section 16” chapter he wrote for Quintessential Barrington’s 2015 Sesquicentennial Special Edition, noting that Barrington’s formation was through its earliest local schools,” said Lisa Stamos, Editor of Quintessential Barrington Magazine. “His leadership as co-chairman for this Sesquicentennial project was invaluable.”
Even after they retired from Barrington 220, the Dunns never really left. “We both made life-lasting friendships with staff members,” Chris said. “They became part of our family when we taught.”
Chris started subbing across the district shortly after she retired. “I missed the kids!” She hasn’t missed a year of subbing since.
Tim continued working as the Assistant Coach of the BHS Varsity Wrestling Team, until his unexpected passing in November 2023, just before a practice at BHS.
“I truly loved Coach Dunn and every minute I got to share with him,” said Joey Sanchez, BHS Social Studies Teacher and Head Football Coach. “Tim is an icon in the Barrington community and a teaching and coaching legend at Barrington High School. His Hall of Fame career is well known, but to me, he will always be the man who took a chance on me at the start of my career.”
In addition to serving the school district, Tim and Chris stayed involved in their community. Tim served on the Village of Barrington Zoning Board for four years and as a Village of Barrington Trustee for eight years. He was a member of the Barrington Lions Club and the St. Anne Mens Club. Chris delivers Meals on Wheels for the Barrington Area Council On Aging (BACOA).
“I can’t think of better people to recognize for the last episode of All in 220 for the 2023-24 school year,” said Dr. Craig Winkelman, Superintendent of Schools. “Chris and Tim have poured their hearts into serving our school district and our community. Their impact is immeasurable and will remain strong for many years.”