District 214 Names New Principal of John Hersey High School

ARLINGTON HEIGHTS, IL — The Township High School District 214 Board of Education recently approved the appointment of Dr. Patty Grow as the next principal of John Hersey High School.

Grow began her career at Hersey as a teacher and has continued serving the school as English, English Learner and Fine Arts Division Head and Associate Principal for Curriculum and Instruction, according to the district. In her current role, she has helped lead schoolwide efforts connected to curriculum, instruction, professional learning, student success and continuous improvement.

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The district also said Grow has played a key role in advancing Hersey’s School Improvement Plan, supporting curriculum alignment, strengthening English Learner programming, expanding professional learning, and contributing to systems focused on freshman success, academic integrity, and college, career and life readiness. Her leadership has supported continued student growth and helped reinforce Hersey’s standing as one of the top-performing high schools in Illinois.

“Dr. Grow is a thoughtful, collaborative and student-centered leader who brings a strong instructional leadership background to this position,” Superintendent Scott Rowe said. “She leads with integrity, listens carefully and has earned the trust of students, staff and families through her commitment to innovative instruction, meaningful relationships and continuous improvement. We are excited for her to lead John Hersey High School into its next chapter.”

During her time at Hersey, Grow has worked closely with administrators, teachers, students, families and district leaders to support collaborative decision-making and a tradition of academic excellence, according to the district. The district said her leadership reflects a belief in collective efficacy, honest dialogue and building systems that help all students succeed.

“I am deeply honored to have the opportunity to serve as principal of John Hersey High School,” Grow said. “Having had the privilege of serving the Hersey community for the past 18 years, it is truly my greatest honor to step into this role. Hersey is a remarkable place, and I am grateful to continue working alongside our students, staff, families, and community as we build on the school’s strong foundation. I look forward to leading with purpose and integrity while continuing our shared commitment to the success and growth of every student.”

Grow holds a Doctor of Education in Curriculum and Instructional Leadership from Northern Illinois University, a Master of Arts in Educational Leadership from Concordia University Chicago, a Master of Arts in Reading from Olivet Nazarene University, and a Bachelor of Arts in English and Secondary Education from Northeastern Illinois University.