Prospect Heights District 23 superintendent announces retirement

Prospect Heights Elementary School District 23 officials are preparing for the upcoming retirement of longtime Superintendent Don Angelaccio.

Angelaccio plans to step down at the end of the 2026-27 school year, when his contract expires after a 10-year run as the district’s top administrator

The district has established a Succession Planning Committee to prepare for his departure, as well as several other leaders’ expected retirements over the next five years.

“It is important to the (school) board, and to me personally, to ensure a smooth transition within the district so we can continue the amazing work happening each day,” said Angelaccio, who took over as superintendent in 2017, after serving as assistant superintendent since 2012.

“We all have worked so hard to move District 23 forward and are committed to seeing continued growth and success, even after we've passed the baton,” he added.

School board President Becky McClaney praised Angelaccio's contributions, including improved student achievement, leading the district through the COVID-19 pandemic, enhanced community engagement and increased inclusion.

“The board looks forward to continuing the collaborative relationship throughout the remainder of his term,” McClaney said.

Over the next two years, the succession committee will gather input from community members, parents, staff and students on what they're looking for in a superintendent.

“While the superintendent is the most visible of positions, we want to support transitions in all of the leadership roles, including building principals, teacher leaders and even board members,” said Spencer Long, board vice president and committee chair.

District 23 serves approximately 1,480 students in Prospect Heights, Arlington Heights, and Wheeling.