Big Hollow’s Gold named Superintendent of Distinction

Bob Gold, superintendent of Big Hollow School District 38, has been named the 2026 Superintendent of Distinction by his peers in the Lake Region of the Illinois Association of School Administrators.

Gold was honored at an awards luncheon on April 23 in Springfield, where 21 regional Superintendents of Distinction were recognized. Dr. Steven Isoye, Chair of the Illinois State Board of Education, served as the featured speaker.

“I have the opportunity to work in Lake County among some of the top school district leaders in the country,” said Gold, who has been an educator for 32 years and superintendent of Big Hollow School District 38 for 11 years.

“To be selected for this award by my colleagues is a tremendous honor. Our focus on innovation and sustainability has allowed us to maximize resources for student learning while building a strong foundation for the future.”

Those nominating Gold noted a number of successes during his tenure including:

• Facilitated a comprehensive energy efficiency plan that included full LED lighting replacement, HVAC system recommissioning, and installation of a solar field producing 85% of the district's electricity.

• Led the District through steady academic gains showing above-average growth annually on state and national assessments.

• Started a dual language program in 2022.

• Developed an instructional coaching program in 2023 to deliver targeted, ongoing professional development.

• Facilitated the development of a model Community Development and Outreach program highlighted by several community events hosted on campus each year.

• Built an after-school academic enrichment program providing over 1,000 hours of enrichment activities for students in grades K-8 during 2024-25.

• Completed a $12 million facility infrastructure upgrade project including new roofs and upgraded HVAC systems in all buildings.

The Lake Region includes 47 school districts and two special education cooperatives in Lake County.

Superintendents of Distinction were selected by peers in their region based on their commitment, dedication and leadership.

“Exceptional leadership creates opportunities for students and strengthens communities,” IASA Executive Director Dr. Brent Clark said. “Bob Gold embodies that leadership in Big Hollow. His innovative approach has transformed the district and positioned it for long-term success.”

The 12th annual luncheon was sponsored by Stifel, the country's leading underwriter of K-12 school bonds.

“The superintendents honored today exemplify the depth of leadership and personal commitment that exceptional superintendents bring to their districts to serve students and staff to be the best they can be,” said Anne Noble, Managing Director of Stifel. “Stifel's longtime commitment to IASA culminates in honoring these amazing superintendents and thanking them for all they do for the students of Illinois.”