LM May 2025

Education Elevat g

Dr. Don Angelaccio Superintendent Prospect Heights SD#23, Cook North

Dr. Lisa Taylor, Superintendent Heyworth CUSD #4, Corn Belt

Who: Dr. Don Angelaccio, Superintendent

Who: Dr. Lisa Taylor, Superintendent What: Modernized district facilities by constructing a new high school gymnasium, converting libraries into learning hubs, building an administrative complex, and equipping classrooms with flexible furniture and integrated technology; Lowered classroom sizes and added academic support for students; Expanded dual credit offerings

What: Cultivated a strong culture where staff and families know and respect each other; Emphasized social-emotional learning, inclusion and trauma-informed practices through strategic professional

development; Helped district become a leader in special education services, including being named a 2024 National Banner Unified Champion School by the Special Olympic; Member of multiple boards and committees, including IASA Board of Directors. Where: Prospect Heights SD #23, Cook North When: Superintendent of Prospect Heights SD #23 for eight years Why: The jump from social worker into school administration may not sound like a natural transition, but Dr. Don Angelaccio quickly learned there was significant overlap in the skill sets required for both roles. “My background in therapeutic social work has proven invaluable in my administrative role,” Dr. Angelaccio said. “In fact, I find myself practicing more social work than ever before—most people who come through my door need someone to help them regulate emotions, provide guidance, resolve conflicts, offer coaching, and navigate complex systems of support. The skills of managing people and building supportive structures are just as essential in administration as they are in direct practice.”

from two to 17 courses; Reduced the property tax rate while building up reserves; IASA Region President; Mentor to female superintendents. Where: Heyworth CUSD #4, Corn Belt When: Superintendent of Heyworth CUSD #4 for nine years; Superintendent of Decatur Unit SD #61. Why: Though life circumstances forced her mother to drop out of high school, the resilience she showed by returning to earn her GED with straight A’s instilled in Dr. Lisa Taylor an enduring belief in the power of public education to transform lives. “As the first in my family to graduate from college, I not only fulfilled a personal goal but also helped redefine what was possible for everyone around me,” Dr. Taylor said. “My academic journey became a catalyst for change—soon after, three of my siblings pursued and earned their own college degrees. Together, we shifted the trajectory of our family, proving that breaking generational cycles is possible with determination and a strong work ethic.”

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18 LM May 2025