Summit School welcomes new principal for the 2023-24 school year
As Summit School kicks off its summer school program at the end of the month, the board and staff will also welcome a new principal, Ivory Clark.
Currently an assistant principal in Algonquin-based Community Unit District 300, Clark is joining Summit School with nearly 25 years of experience in education.
He started his career in Rock Island, Illinois and since then as served in positions ranging from paraprofessional and substitute teacher to dean, principal and assistant principal. It was in Rock Island at the Black Hawk Special Education School District that Clark's passion for working with special education students took root.
"During the time spent at Black Hawk, it became clear that special education was the most challenging and most gratifying experience an educator could hope for," Clark said. "It is not a coincidence, then, that the most appealing position as I began to explore new opportunities was the chance to work at this altruistic institution (Summit School) as the principal."
Summit School's leadership was equally as excited to find Clark and the expertise and vision he brings to the table.
Clark's educational background is extensive. He holds a bachelor's degree in history from Augustana College, and master's degrees from Western Illinois University in educational leadership and from the University of Phoenix in educational studies with an emphasis in special education.
"Ivory Clark not only brings a wealth of experience to the Summit team, but his leadership style and character make him a great fit for the students and families we serve at Summit School," said Steve Baldwin, Summit School Inc. president and CEO. "Ivory's expertise and perspective will also be a tremendous asset as we grow our program and establish strategic priorities that ensure we continue to be responsive to the needs of our special ed community."
As Clark looks ahead to his new role, he, too, expressed excitement to begin collaborating.
"I am optimistic about the opportunities that will present themselves due to effective strategic planning and am excited to help the team navigate the challenges facing educators of students with special needs." But, his first priority will be to establish synergistic, trusting relationships with the students, staff and families.
"Educating the whole child, in collaboration with an inspirational staff, will be my ultimate goal."
Summit School is a private, non-profit therapeutic day program for children with learning differences from kindergarten through high school graduation. Students with learning disabilities, emotional and anxiety issues, or on the autism spectrum attend Summit School from more than 20 school districts throughout northern Illinois. To learn more about Summit School, visit www.summitelgin.org.