District 128 chooses Colorado educator as next superintendent
The Libertyville-Vernon Hills High School District 128 school board Monday authorized the hiring of Marc Schaffer as its next superintendent, effective July 1.
Schaffer, an Illinois native and current superintendent of Thompson School District in Loveland, Colorado, was selected from a national pool of 22 candidates, officials said.
“We are pleased to welcome Dr. Schaffer back to Illinois as the new superintendent of District 128,” school board President Jim Batson said in an announcement of the hiring.
“His extensive experience as a superintendent makes him well-equipped to lead our district,” Batson added. “He shares our unwavering commitment to continue to provide outstanding educational opportunities for our students.”
The hiring process involved school board members, administrators, teachers, support staff and community members who comprised focus groups and interview teams, according to the district.
Schaffer graduated from Niles West High School in Skokie, then earned his Bachelor of Arts degree from Indiana University and a Master of Science in education, curriculum and instruction and a doctorate in education and educational leadership from Northern Illinois University.
“This district is a shining example of a world-class education system, driven by its exceptional students, dedicated staff, and supportive, engaged community,” Schaffer said about joining District 128. “I am excited and energized to continue building on the strong traditions of excellence in student achievement, outcomes, and experiences, while also inspiring every student to be daring in their pursuits.”
Schaffer has served as superintendent in Colorado since 2018. He previously was a middle school principal, assistant principal and teacher in Northbrook School District 27.
Veteran educators Raymond Lechner and Rebecca Nelson have been serving as interim superintendents for District 128 since July, after the district parted ways with former Superintendent Denise Herrmann three years before her contract expired.
Nelson said she and Lechner will assist Schaffer as he prepares to take over leadership of the district, which educates about 3,240 students at Libertyville and Vernon Hills high schools.
“Throughout the remainder of this school year, we will meet weekly with Dr. Schaffer to ensure a smooth and successful transition as he takes the helm of D128 on July 1,” Nelson said.