Dr. Laurie Heinz Named Superintendent of Distinction by IASA

Community Consolidated School District 15 proudly announces that Superintendent Dr. Laurie Heinz has been named the Superintendent of Distinction for the North Cook Region by her colleagues through the Illinois Association of School Administrators (IASA), a prestigious honor recognizing exemplary leadership, professionalism, and commitment to education.

The North Cook Region of IASA represents 46 superintendents across school districts and special education cooperatives. 

Dr. Heinz was selected for her distinguished career in education and her impactful leadership across multiple districts. She currently serves as Superintendent of Schools for Community Consolidated School District 15 (CCSD15), the second-largest elementary district in Illinois, where she has led since 2019 as its first female superintendent.

Throughout her 35 years as an educator, Dr. Heinz served as a teacher, Assistant Principal, Principal, Assistant Superintendent, and Superintendent in Park Ridge-Niles School District 64 before taking the helm as the Superintendent of District 15. She is widely recognized for her innovative, people-centered leadership style, and her unwavering commitment to prioritizing students in every decision.

“I am deeply moved to be named an IASA Superintendent of Distinction,” said Dr. Heinz. “To call this recognition an honor is an understatement; our region is home to so many talented leaders who share my unwavering commitment to working alongside staff for the betterment of the students we proudly serve.”

“The success of a school district is never a solo achievement,” Dr. Heinz added. “This recognition is a direct reflection of the collective dedication of our Board of Education, our tireless staff, a passionate leadership team, engaged families, a supportive community, amazing students and my love for this work.”

During her seven-year tenure in District 15, Dr. Heinz has led the district through a significant period of growth and progress, including the successful passage of the $186 million Moving 15 Forward referendum, which expanded full-day kindergarten, transitioned to a middle school model, modernized facilities, new library spaces, strengthened academic offerings and programmatic supports, and increased staffing to address the changing needs of our student body.

Beyond district initiatives and operational improvements, Dr. Heinz also prioritized visibility, accessibility, and authentic engagement throughout her leadership. Through community outreach efforts such as Catch Up with Heinz, staff-focused conversations through school visits as part of Hang with Heinz, and direct student voice opportunities through the Superintendent’s Middle School Student Advisory, she created intentional spaces for community members, staff, and students to share our work, seek feedback, strengthen relationships, and help shape the direction of the district through meaningful two-way communication.

“A great superintendent builds more than programs; they build a culture where both staff and students can truly thrive,” said Dr. Shari Lazor, Associate Superintendent of CCSD15. “This recognition reflects the passion, heart, and intentional leadership Dr. Heinz brings to District 15 each day. I am incredibly grateful to have learned from her and to have had the opportunity to serve alongside her.”

Dr. Heinz’s leadership has extended well beyond the school walls. She has been an active and influential member of IASA, serving in numerous leadership roles including President of the North Cook Region and as a member of the IASA/ISBE Advisory Committee. She has also been deeply engaged in the broader community, serving on the Partners for Our Community (POC) Board, participating in numerous community leaders groups, and collaborating with Rolling Meadows Health and Human Services to strengthen support for students and families to name a few.

“It is especially meaningful that this recognition comes from her peers, superintendents who understand firsthand the complexity and demands of the role,” said Samantha Ader, President of the CCSD15 Board of Education. “We are proud to have her representing and leading District 15, and to see her impressive career recognized in such a meaningful way.”

Dr. Heinz will retire at the conclusion of the 2025–2026 school year, closing a remarkable chapter in a highly-respected career. Community Consolidated School District 15 congratulates Dr. Heinz for this well-deserved recognition and thanks her for her years of dedicated leadership and service.