Dominic Manola named future principal at East Leyden High School

Dominic Manola has been named as the future principal of East Leyden High School in Franklin Park. His position will be official on July 1, when he replaces Jason Markey, East Leyden's current principal. Markey will move on to be the new principal at Glenbrook North High School.

Manola is a former member of the Leyden family. In 2008, he started his career at the East campus as a teacher in the social studies department. He also served as the director of student activities and director of community outreach.

In 2014, he left Leyden and accepted a position as the director of student activities at Lake Park High School in Roselle. He was promoted to assistant principal for instructional innovation in 2016, and principal in 2019.

“I am extremely excited to return to a place I have always considered home,” Manola says. “In many ways, Leyden has served as a foundation for my educational beliefs and passions. I am humbled to be a part of the Leyden family once again.”

Manola earned an undergraduate degree in social studies education from Benedictine University. He earned two master degrees from Olivet Nazarene University, one in Curriculum and Instruction and one in School Improvement Leadership. Last year, he completed his doctorate in Educational Leadership at National Louis University.

“Dominic stood out from the other candidates because he has existing relationships with and knowledge of Leyden,” says Superintendent Nick Polyak. “In addition, he brings with him the expertise of having served as an assistant principal and principal in another school district. We are excited to bring him back home to his Leyden family.”

Manola notes that Leyden is a special place, and that he is grateful for the opportunity to return to the district to serve students and the community. “I am looking forward to 'coming home' and being part of the family whose goal is to do what's best for the students,” he adds.

Manola and his spouse Lauren are the parents of three young children. The family resides in Palatine.