District 214 names Kara Kendrick associate superintendent for Student Services

High School District 214 has named Kara Kendrick as its new associate superintendent for Student Services.

Kendrick brings a wealth of relevant experience to her new role, having served as associate principal for Student Services for Prospect High School since 2018, and having previously worked as dean of students at Maine South and Naperville North high schools. She came to District 214 in 2013, working for five years as director of The Academy of Forest View and life-214’s Transition Program.

Throughout her time in District 214, Kendrick’s work has been marked by a student-centered approach with a focus on inclusivity for all — priorities she will bring to her cabinet role as well.

“When you look closely at Kara’s work, what really stands out is that she brings a unique blend of empathy, innovation and strategic thinking to the role and has an unwavering commitment to placing students at the forefront of every decision. Additionally, she has worked to expand her own development and skill set in support of student services at every stage of her career,” said Superintendent Dr. Scott Rowe.

Kendrick was instrumental in Prospect earning the National Blue Ribbon School Award in 2023, and she received the district’s Dr. Elizabeth A. Ennis Innovator Award for the 2015-16 school year. She earned a bachelor’s degree in education and special education and a master’s in educational administration, both from Illinois State University. She began her career as a special-education teacher in Normal, Illinois.