“Our community helped define a clear leadership profile for our next superintendent—someone with experience across the classroom, school, and district levels, who leads with vision, collaboration, transparency, and a deep commitment to all students,” said Board President Samantha Ader. “Dr. Smith’s experience and leadership approach reflect that vision. The Board is confident he’s the right next leader for our district and we are thrilled to welcome him to District 15.”

Since 2017, Dr. Smith has served as Superintendent of Schools for Flossmoor School District 161, a Prekindergarten through eighth-grade district. Under his leadership, the district has demonstrated consistent increases in student growth and achievement, including the recognition of multiple “Exemplary” schools. He has strengthened transparency and communication, resulting in increased family engagement and deeper community involvement in district initiatives.

Before becoming the superintendent in Flossmoor District 161, he served as the Assistant Superintendent for Early Childhood and Elementary Education in Woodstock Unit School District 200, where he led curriculum, instruction, assessment, and professional development work. This role also allowed him to gain valuable experience supporting dual language programming for students. Prior to Woodstock District 200, Dr. Smith worked in Mundelein School District 75 as a principal and the Director of Educational Services. His administrative career started in Valley View School District 365U as both an assistant principal and building principal. 

Dr. Smith earned his Doctorate of Education in Educational Leadership from DePaul University, a Master’s Degree in Educational Leadership and Administration from North Central University, and a Bachelor’s Degree in Educational Studies from Illinois Wesleyan University.  

According to Dr. Smith, “Earning the opportunity to lead the talented students, engaged families, and high quality staff members in Community Consolidated School District 15 is a dream come true. I am grateful to the Board of Education for their support and I am looking forward to partnering with the school community to deliver incredible outcomes for our children.”

This leadership transition follows the retirement of Dr. Laurie Heinz, who served as CCSD15’s Superintendent for seven years as the district’s first female superintendent. During her tenure, the district advanced a community-driven strategic plan, strengthened instructional systems, expanded student supports, modernized district communication, and secured voter approval of the Moving 15 Forward referendum modernizing school facilities and bringing full-day kindergarten and middle schools to the district.

“District 15 is stronger today because of the leadership, care, and vision Dr. Heinz brought to this role,” said Ader. “We are deeply grateful for her service and the foundation she built, which positions Dr. Smith to continue the district’s forward momentum for our students and families.”

Welcome to District 15, Dr. Smith!

 

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