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The Downers Grove Grade School District 58 Board of Education Monday appointed David Norman to serve as the principal of Herrick Middle School, effective July 1.
Norman replaces current principal Amy Read, who has taken an elementary principal position in a different district.
“I am pleased to recommend Dr. Norman to the Herrick Middle School principal position!” Superintendent Kevin Russell said in a statement. “Throughout the rigorous interview process, Dr. Norman demonstrated that he has a strong work ethic, is committed to creating an environment where all students can achieve and grow at the highest levels, and will collaborate with all stakeholders to build strong relationships. Our interview teams noted that he is energetic, student and staff-centered, and committed to building relationships with students, staff and families. We are excited to welcome him onboard.”
Russell added that the interview process comprised several rounds of team interviews with staff, parents/guardians and administrators. In addition, Herrick parents, guardians and staff completed surveys identifying the characteristics they most desired in their new principal.
Finally, Russell held a Herrick student focus group to hear what students valued most in their next school leader. District 58 used all of this feedback when selecting the new principal.
Norman currently serves as the assistant principal of student services at St. Charles North High School in Community Unit School District 303, a position he has held for four years. In this role, he led the school’s professional learning communities, implemented a data-driven approach to educational decision making, hired and evaluated staff and improved the school’s IEP procedures.
Prior to this role, he served as the assistant principal of Geneva Middle School in Geneva Community Unit School District 304 and as a special education teacher in Aurora West School District 129 and Crystal Lake High School District 155.
Norman holds a doctorate in educational leadership from Aurora University, a master’s degree in educational administration from North Central College, a master’s degree in curriculum and instruction from Concordia University Chicago and a bachelor’s degree in special education from Benedictine University.
“I want to thank the District 58 administrative team, the parents and the Herrick teachers who were a part of the interview process. I am grateful and thrilled to have the opportunity to join this incredible learning community, and I cannot wait to work with students, families and teachers as we all grow together as Herrick Spartans,” Norman said in a statement.
Norman resides in Lisle with his wife, Laura, and three daughters.