River Trails' Superintendent Dr. Nancy Wagner has been named the 2022 Superintendent of Distinction by her colleagues in the Cook North Region of the Illinois Association of School Administrators (IASA).
Dr. Wagner was honored at an awards luncheon May 4 in Springfield. State Superintendent Dr. Carmen Ayala was the featured speaker, where 21 IASA regional Superintendents of Distinction were recognized.
“My career in education has led me to conclude that positive relationships are the foundation of all learning, making every interaction with students, staff and the community a significant component of a successful school district,” said Wagner, who has been an educator for 30 years and superintendent of RTSD26 for five years.
Those nominating Wagner noted a number of successes during her tenure including:
- Developed a strategic plan with the community that balances academics and social-emotional learning with the motto of Head Ready + Heart Ready = Life Ready.
- Remodeled an old school building to become the first Net Zero Energy building in Mt. Prospect.
- Built and maintained strong positive relationships among the administration, union, board and community.
The Cook North Region includes 39 school districts and two special education cooperatives. Superintendents of Distinction were selected by peers in their region based on their commitment, dedication and leadership.
“Superintendents across Illinois navigated immense challenges this school year, so it really is an honor to standout and be recognized by your peers for outstanding leadership and elevating student success,” said IASA Executive Director Dr. Brent Clark. “Each of these superintendents are great examples of how strong leadership can improve the educational environment for students, strengthen communities and continuously push districts forward.”
The eighth annual luncheon was again sponsored by Horace Mann, one of the nation’s largest insurers focusing on the needs of educators.
“Superintendents continued to face unprecedented challenges this school year as students and teachers returned to the classroom,” said Marita Zuraitis, Horace Mann President and CEO. “Strong leadership has never been more critical. We are proud to recognize these Superintendents of Distinction for navigating their districts through the ongoing pursuit of providing a quality education for their students.”