Our Superintendent Kathy Clark has been named the 2025 Superintendent of Distinction by her colleagues in the Shawnee Region of the Illinois Association of School Administrators (IASA).
Clark was honored at a recent awards luncheon in Springfield. State Superintendent Dr. Tony Sanders was the featured speaker, where 21 IASA regional Superintendents of Distinction were recognized.
"Being recognized by my peers is a great honor, but it truly reflects the passion, resilience, and commitment of the entire Johnston City CUSD 1 team," said Clark, who has been an educator for 33 years and superintendent of Johnston City CUSD #1 for 10 years. "I'm proud of what we've accomplished together to support student success and strengthen our schools. It's a privilege to lead in a community that values collaboration, innovation, and doing what's best for kids."
Those nominating Clark noted a number of successes during her tenure including:
Secured a $5 million grant to establish Full Service Community Schools, enhancing educational support for students.
Hired social workers at every school across the district to provide comprehensive support to students and families.
Introduced new CTE programs in Agriculture, Education, Social Work, Business, and Medical Careers.
Expanded Fine Arts programming.
Implemented Parent Mentors at elementary schools.
Expanded community partnerships with local churches and businesses, fostering collaborative initiatives to benefit students and the community.
Introduced Student Support Advocates to work directly with students and their families, improve student attendance, behavior, and academic performance.
The Shawnee Region is comprised of Jackson, Williamson, Saline, Gallatin, Union, Johnson, Pope, Hardin, Alexander, Pulaski and Massac counties. Superintendents of Distinction were selected by peers in their region based on their commitment, dedication and leadership.
"Effective school leadership requires both vision and the ability to execute," said IASA Executive Director Dr. Brent Clark. "Kathy has demonstrated both qualities consistently throughout her career in Johnston City. Her focus on building community partnerships while enhancing educational opportunities has created lasting positive change for students."
The 11th annual luncheon was sponsored by Stifel, the country's leading underwriter of K-12 school bonds.
"The superintendents honored today exemplify the depth of leadership and personal commitment that exceptional superintendents bring to their districts to serve students and staff to be the best they can be," said Anne Noble, Managing Director of Stifel. "Stifel's longtime commitment to IASA culminates in honoring these amazing superintendents and thanking them for all they do for the students of Illinois."