Students at Chicago Public Schools walk along a hallway in this file photo. (WTTW News)
The Illinois State Board of Education has named the chief of the state’s second-largest school district as its new superintendent of education.
The board on Tuesday announced Tony Sanders, who currently serves as superintendent of Elgin’s School District U-46, will take over as state superintendent next month following the retirement of Carmen Ayala.
“Dr. Tony Sanders is an extraordinary choice for State Superintendent of Education,” Gov. J.B. Pritzker said in a statement. “His focus on innovation, social emotional development, and academic excellence make him an extraordinary pick. I can think of no better person to lead the Illinois State Board of Education as we continue to invest in, support, and elevate our students and educators.”
The board said it conducted a nationwide search to find a replacement after Ayala — who was both the first woman and person of color to hold the position — announced her plans to step down when her contract expired at the end of January.
Illinois records show Ayala earned $272,000 as superintendent in 2021, while Sanders was paid more than $248,000 during the 2021-22 school year.
According to ISBE, while he was leading School District U-46, Sanders added full-day kindergarten, grew the district’s dual language program and created a new alternative high school to reduce expulsions and better serve students in need of trauma-informed care.
“At U-46, he has championed equity, expanded opportunities for students, and brought innovative new programs to the district,” ISBE Board Chair Steven Isoye said in a statement. “The Board looks forward to his leadership; we are confident he will build on our record-high graduation rates and college and career readiness to continue leading Illinois’ schools in a positive direction.”
While Sanders is set to take over toward the end of next month, ISBE Deputy Education Officer Krish Mohip will serve as interim state superintendent of education during the transition.
Jared Rutecki contributed to this report.
Contact Matt Masterson: @ByMattMasterson | [email protected] | (773) 509-5431
