District 129 School Psychologist Moves Into New Role

AURORA, IL — After serving as a school psychologist for seven years, David J. Heater has been appointed for a new role within West Aurora School District 129.

The Board of Education approved Heater to be the district's outplacement and parochial coordinator at Monday night's meeting. In the new role, starting in the 2022-23 school year, he will work as a case manager for students placed in private special education facilities and act as a liaison for students who are enrolled in private or parochial schools and receive special education services under an individualized education plan.

Prior to the promotion, Heater has worked since 2018 as both as school psychologist — a position he held for three years before the joint role — and IEP and 504 system coordinator. In the job, he oversees IEP compliance, develops and documents procedures and trains staff members, according to district officials.

"I have been privileged to serve the West Aurora community as a school psychologist for the last seven years," Heater said in a statement. "In that role, I have seen the district’s commitment to the success of all students and look forward to this new opportunity."

Heater obtained his bachelor's degree in psychology from Elmhurst College. He also holds a master's degree in education and an educational specialist degree in school psychology, both from National Louis University. Currently, Heater is working to get a director of special education endorsement at Northern Illinois University.