Dist. 73 boss retiring after 13 years

Hawthorn Elementary District 73 Superintendent Youssef Yomtoob's life has been an Odyssey in the truest sense of the word. Since emigrating to New York City from Iran in 1958, he has instructed and mentored thousands in a career devoted to education.

Yomtoob, better known as "Dr. Joe," retires Tuesday, marking the end of a 13-year tenure with District 73. He is succeeded by Susan Zook.

"Dr. Joe's unique energy and passion for education is completely invested in the success of each and every child in his schools," said Gavin Elementary District 37 Superintendent John Ahlemeyer. "He is always encouraging others to learn and think differently. He has passed that attitude on to his district - it will not be lost with his retirement."

Raised by Jewish parents in Iran, Yomtoob's educational opportunities were limited because of his minority religious status. He made it his life's work to extend those opportunities to others throughout a career that spanned a half-century.

Yomtoob said his experience as District 73's leader enabled him to end his career "on an absolute high note."

"What brought me to this district was their support of the most important part of educational life: student achievement," he said. "My relationship with everyone in the Hawthorn community has been exemplary."

District 73's mantra, "Learning for All - Whatever it Takes!" was Yomtoob's brainchild and is the cornerstone of his legacy as an educator and administrator.

Yomtoob garnered praise for improving District 73 academics, leading successful labor negotiations, creating financial stability and expanding school facilities.

In 2003 national education newspaper eSchool News named Yomtoob as one of 10 "Tech Savvy Superintendents of the Year" in the nation.

Several District 73 administrators who worked under Yomtoob, like Ahlemeyer, are now superintendents in their own respective districts.

"I've admired his ability to be a visionary leader and recognize the diversity in our community as a positive," said outgoing PTO President Nicole Carson. "In a district with nearly 4,000 kids it is be impossible to please everybody all the time, but he always tried and he always knew when to stand strong."

Although he says the district has come a long way since 1996, Yomtoob firmly believes District 73's best days are ahead.

"From the bottom of my heart, I know that Dr. Zook will be a great leader who is truly focused on the continued success of the district," he said. "She is a very smart and dedicated person who believes in all of our students. Plus, she is a good songwriter."

Yomtoob is 69. Details of his pension were not immediately available Monday.

Yomtoob's plans include a return to Michigan, where he spent the majority of his career, a tour of the western United States and a wedding in Israel this fall.

For "Dr. Joe" retirement does not spell the end of his Odyssey, it only means that a new chapter has yet to be written.