New principal coming to North Elementary in Des Plaines

A longtime suburban educator has been named the next principal at North Elementary School in Des Plaines.

The Des Plaines Elementary School District 62 board agreed to hire Carolyn Allar for the job during its meeting last week. She starts July 26.

Allar will replace Margo Giannoulis, who has been the boss at North since 2019. Giannoulis is taking a job outside District 62, a spokeswoman said.

Allar has spent nearly 20 years in Schaumburg Township Elementary School District 54, starting as a teacher. She's now principal at that district's Muir Literacy Academy in Hoffman Estates.

In a news release, Allar, of Elmhurst, said she was "excited to work collaboratively" with North's students, staff and families.

"I look forward to learning alongside the North community on our path to excellence," she said.

Incoming Superintendent Michael Amadei welcomed Allar to the district.

"Mrs. Allar has extensive experience as a classroom teacher, instructional mentor and school administrator," Amadei said. "I'm looking forward to seeing her join the North Elementary School learning community and foster relationships with the staff, families and students."