New Principal Named To Take Helm At O'Neill Middle School

DOWNERS GROVE, IL — A new principal has been named to take the helm at O'Neill Middle School. Lauryn Humphris will become principal on July 1, 2023, when current principal Matt Durbala retires after 18 years in the role.

Humphris was chosen by the Downers Grove District 58 Board of Education after what Superintendent Dr. Kevin Russell called "a very competitive interview process," according to a news release. The interview process included team interviews that involved staff and parents, as well as administrators.

Prior to coming to District 58, Humphris served as assistant principal of Edison Middle School in Wheaton. She previously taught and worked as an instructional coach in Lombard and Villa Park.

Humphris earned a master's degree in teaching and leadership from St. Xavier University and a master's degree in school leadership from Concordia University. She earned her bachelors degree in elementary education at Augustana College.

When Humphris begins her tenure as principal, she will be returning to the middle school she attended as a child.

"I have fond memories of my time at O’Neill Middle School and am grateful for the education I received. I am thrilled and honored to return as the school’s principal. I look forward to meeting the students, staff and families, and working together to make O’Neill the best it can be," Humphris said in a statement.

Dr. Russell added, "Ms. Humphris excelled throughout a very competitive interview process. The interview teams described Ms. Humphris as enthusiastic, hard-working, student-centered and dedicated. Additionally, her references noted that Ms. Humphris is a strong leader who works closely with teachers and support staff to achieve great outcomes for students. She values staff input and will go above and beyond for all stakeholders."