Naperville principal headed to Elmhurst District 205

Indian Prairie Unit District 204 is losing a prized principal to Elmhurst.

Cowlishaw Elementary School Principal Karen Sullivan has been hired as assistant superintendent for curriculum and instruction in Elmhurst Unit District 205.

Sullivan, a 14-year veteran of District 204, has held positions including preschool principal and director of student services. Before 1995 she also worked as a director of grants and special projects, principal for a parent/infant program, and a speech/language pathologist/classroom educator for the South Metropolitan Association.

Sullivan sent an e-mail to parents informing them of her decision.

"I have truly enjoyed my four years at Cowlishaw. They have been the highlight of my 14-year career in Indian Prairie District 204," Sullivan wrote. "I have had the pleasure of working with an incredibly talented group of educators here at Cowlishaw. Please know how lucky you are to have them teaching your children."

Indian Prairie's Director of Elementary Education Martha Baumann called Sullivan "one of the most respected principals among her colleagues, teachers and central office staff."

"I am not at all surprised that her talents and skills were snapped up by someone," Baumann said Tuesday. "She has a background in special education and regular education so she brings a wealth of knowledge and perspective to all that she does."

Sullivan's hiring was approved Monday night and she will begin her new position July 1. Elmhurst officials said her diverse background fit the district's needs.

"Karen brings both a regular and special education perspective, an understanding of the unit district, and possesses the ability to affect change in positive ways," Superintendent Lynn Krizic said.

Sullivan will fill the vacancy left by Tom McCann, who retires on June 30 after four years with the Elmhurst district.