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District 59 names new superintendent

The Elk Grove Township Elementary District 59 school board has selected Art Fessler as the new superintendent, effective July 1. The appointment was announced Tuesday.

Fessler joins District 59 from Oak Lawn-Hometown District 123 where he has been the superintendent since 2010.

“Dr. Fessler has an infectious energy and vision that will move the district forward,” board President Brian Kiel said.

Under Fessler’s leadership in District 123, student achievement scores significantly increased, the district demonstrated fiscal responsibility through the creation of a multiyear plan to achieve a balanced budget during times of significant financial challenge, implemented the Common Core State Standards (CCSS) with a focus on literacy across all content areas, introduced and implemented a standards-based reporting system to align with the CCSS, and provided a focus and passion for making students and their learning first in all decisions.

He also facilitated the creation of a comprehensive communications plan, a vision for learning in the 21st century that included the successful implementation of a one-to-one computer learning initiative, a facilities plan, and a long-range financial plan.

Fessler is no stranger to the Northwest suburbs. He worked as an assistant superintendent and building principal in Barrington School District 220 for 12 years. He was an assistant principal for three years and a classroom teacher for eight years in Carpentersville-based Community Unit District 300.

Fessler holds a doctoral degree in educational leadership from the University of Illinois, a master’s degree in curriculum and instruction from Concordia University in River Forest, and a bachelor’s degree in elementary education from Judson University in Elgin.

He also serves as the South Cook Professional Learning Coordinator for the Illinois Association of School Administrators, the treasurer for the Suburban Superintendent Association, and as finance chairman and executive board member for the South Cooperative Organization for Public Education.

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