Zion-Benton’s Rodriguez named Superintendent of Distinction
Dr. Jesse J. Rodriguez, superintendent of Zion-Benton Township High School District 126, has been named the 2025 Superintendent of Distinction by his peers in the Lake Region of the Illinois Association of School Administrators.
Dr. Rodriguez was honored at an awards luncheon on May 15 in Springfield, where 21 regional Superintendents of Distinction were recognized. State Superintendent Dr. Tony Sanders served as the featured speaker.
“On behalf of District 126 — and in collaboration with our local partners and colleagues across Lake County and the state of Illinois — this recognition reflects our shared commitment to excellence, access and measurable student success,” said Dr. Rodriguez, who has been an educator for 28 years and superintendent of District 126 for five years. “By fostering collaboration, exchanging ideas, and maintaining an unwavering focus on high standards and skill development, we are driving meaningful change and preparing students for the future.”
• Academic Success: Increased ninth-grade on-track rates to 91% and graduation rates to 90%.
• Strategic Investment: Repurposed over $10 million to support the Strategic Plan for Improvement, resulting in measurable outcomes
• College Readiness: Strengthened dual credit pathways by integrating the General Education Core Curriculum (GECC) and expanding Advanced Placement (AP) course offerings.
• Staff Culture: Maintained a 92% staff retention rate by fostering high morale and accountability.
• Governance: Implemented policy-driven governance that reduced legal liabilities and saved the district thousands.
• Community Engagement: Expanded student opportunities through key partnerships and launched robust outreach efforts to engage families.
• Professional Development: Designed a district-wide professional development system that supports instructional innovation and continuous growth for staff and students.
The Lake Region encompasses school districts in Lake County. Superintendents of Distinction were selected by peers in their region based on their commitment, dedication and leadership.
“Effective school leadership requires both vision and the ability to execute,” said IASA Executive Director Dr. Brent Clark. “Dr. Rodriguez has demonstrated both qualities consistently throughout his career in Zion-Benton. His focus on building community partnerships while enhancing educational opportunities has created lasting positive change for students.”
The 11th 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.”