New principal chosen for Iroquois School in Des Plaines

Robert Pape has been named the new principal Iroquois Community School Principal in Des Plaines, officials in Des Plaines Elementary School District 62 announced this week.

Pape will replace longtime principal Michael Amadei, who recently was appointed interim assistant superintendent for human resources. Pape most recently served as the principal of Allen Elementary School in Aurora.

"I'm extremely honored to join the Iroquois Community School learning community," Pape said in a news release. "I look forward to collaborating with the staff as we support our students and families in the new school year."

Pape began his career teaching general music to kindergarten through 6th grade students in Cicero School District 99. He went on to become an assistant principal in Addison School District 4 in 2005, later becoming a principal in 2008. Pape continued his career as principal in 2010 in Bensenville District 2 before joining East Aurora District 131 in 2012.

He graduated from Roosevelt University in 1998 with a bachelor's degree in music education. He earned a masters in educational leadership in 2005 from Aurora University and is pursuing his doctorate from Aurora University.

"I have enjoyed learning about Iroquois Community School and its staff and students. It is clear to me that school is nothing short of amazing," he said. "I am incredibly excited to lead and be part of the Iroquois learning community."