Friedman named interim superintendent in District 59

Mark Friedman, the state’s superintendent of the year in 2009, has been selected as the interim superintendent for Elk Grove Township Elementary District 59, according to a news release issued today.

The school board approved the appointment last week, pending negotiation of details. Friedman will begin work Jan. 7 and continue through June 30, replacing Daniel Schweers, who recently announced his retirement effective Dec. 31. Schweers, who was scheduled to retire next summer, moved up his departure date, citing ongoing health issues and the stress of the job.

Friedman has more than 40 years of experience in education. He began his career as an elementary teacher in the Chicago Public Schools. In 1981, he was appointed principal of Washington Elementary School in Itasca District 10. He served Lincolnwood School District 74 as an assistant superintendent for curriculum, instruction and personnel, and was superintendent in Libertyville School District 70.

During the 2010/11 school year, he was a special projects consultant and interim superintendent for Winnetka District 36. Friedman is a partner with BWP & Associates, educational leadership search consultants.

Brian Kiel, school board president, stated, “It is with a great deal of pleasure and confidence that we welcome Dr. Friedman to the School District 59 community. The Board of Education looks forward to the contributions he will make as we continue to provide the best possible educational experience for our students.”

The school board is in the final steps of hiring a permanent superintendent, who will assume the position on July 1.