New Chief Academic Officer Announced

District 204 officials announced Kathy Pease will transition to Chief Academic Officer beginning July 1. Since 2012, Pease has served as District 204's Assistant Superintendent for Elementary Teaching and Learning. In her current role, she oversees the district's preschool and 21 elementary schools.

Superintendent Karen Sullivan said Pease's knowledge of priorities and projects will be an asset to the district. "Kathy is a competent educator and leader who already has a vast knowledge of the work being done to best meet our students' needs. She will be able to seamlessly step into this new role and keep things moving forward."

Pease has seen many changes in the district since her first role as principal of Spring Brook Elementary School. She opened that school in 2002. "We've seen education evolve over the years and changes are still happening as we prepare our students to compete globally. I'm honored to have the opportunity to lead the curriculum department in a district that always places doing what is best for students first, no matter what challenges we face."

Pease also held positions in Geneva School District, where she served as principal of Western Avenue School before being appointed Director of Teaching and Learning.

She obtained her bachelor's degree in elementary education from University of Illinois and her master's degree in curriculum and supervision from Northern Illinois University.

Pease is replacing Kathy Duncan, who is retiring June 30.