Itasca District 10 named national winner at District Administration 2025 National Superintendents Summit
Recognizing school districts and school leaders that demonstrate bold vision, steadfast leadership, and transformational school district impact
On behalf of Itasca Elementary District 10, Deputy Superintendent Heidi Weeks accepted the “District of Distinction: Professional Development & Wellness Award” at the 2025 District Administration Leadership Institute (DALI) National Superintendents Summit in Palm Beach, Florida.
The 2025 Awards of Distinction program recognizes school districts driving meaningful change across multiple categories.
“Districts of Distinction” honors pioneering programs with proven success, serving as inspiration for replicable models nationwide.
District 10 was honored with the national District Administration Leadership Institute (DALI) Award for District of Distinction in Professional Development and Wellness for its intentional, comprehensive approach to strengthening educator capacity and supporting every learner.
Facing the evolving needs of a diverse student population, the district recognized that improving achievement, equity, and engagement required sustained investment in leadership development, teacher expertise, and systems of instructional support.
By prioritizing educator professional growth and wellness, the district created a culture where educators are empowered to meet students where they are and help them thrive.
Central to this effort was a commitment to educator learning. In response to a growing English Language Learner population, the district opened ELL certification opportunities to all interested teachers — resulting in more than 33% of the district’s 80 educators now ELL certified, compared to just two teachers in 2015.
This work expanded to include differentiation and gifted certifications, as well as a district-hosted master’s program in Educational Leadership for 10 teacher leaders. As a result, the percentage of educators holding graduate degrees increased from 49% in 2016 to 76% by 2024, and teacher attendance now stands at an exceptional 90.5%, among the highest in Illinois.
District 10 also invested in students by updating every curriculum within the past eight years to ensure alignment, rigor, and relevance.
The impact of these strategic investments has been transformative. In 2024, all three District 10 schools earned an Exemplary designation from the Illinois State Board of Education — the highest rating awarded to schools performing in the top 10% statewide with no underperforming student groups.
The schools also reflect the strength of the family and community partnerships. Transparent communication and a focus on shared goals have helped create an environment where students thrive.
With chronic absenteeism rates at roughly half the state average, students benefit from personalized, supportive, and engaging learning experiences. Together, these outcomes reflect not only strong academic performance, but also consistency and a districtwide commitment to supporting every learner, every day.
The District Administration Awards of Distinction program offers a national platform to highlight excellence and innovation in K-12 education. Over 11 years, it has consistently showcased pioneering programs from all 50 states, acting as a national repository for replicable K-12 success stories.
“The superintendency is evolving beyond operational management to encompass civic stewardship,” said Amy Dujon, vice president of education for Community EDU. “Our award winners embody a new model of leadership — one that unites vision, trust, and community engagement to build resilient, future-focused school systems.”
About the District Administration Leadership Institute
The District Administration Leadership Institute (DALI) connects K — 12 leaders nationwide through invitation-only summits and executive-level forums. DALI provides a platform for superintendents to engage in peer-to-peer learning, explore innovative strategies, and develop actionable solutions to today’s most pressing educational challenges — all within a trusted, vendor-free environment. For more information about the Superintendents Summit, visit DistrictAdministration.com/DALI.
About Itasca Elementary District 10
Itasca Elementary District 10 is a public school district in DuPage County, Illinois, operating three schools that serve students in early childhood through eighth grade. The district is committed to academic excellence, safety, equity, and whole-child development through high-quality instruction, innovative leadership, and strong partnerships with families and the community. For more information, visit Itasca10.org.