Principal Named For Elmhurst's Largest Elementary

ELMHURST, IL – A new principal has been hired for Elmhurst's largest elementary school.

On Tuesday, the Elmhurst School District 205 board approved the hiring of Efrain Martinez as principal for Conrad Fischer Elementary, which is on the city's north side. He is now the principal of Northwood Middle School in Highland Park.

Martinez is replacing Irene Villa, who is retiring after four years as principal. Her last day is June 30.

Martinez's education career spans 17 years, including experience as a Spanish teacher and a coordinator of English-as-a-second-language and bilingual programs.

At Northwood, Martinez, who has a doctorate in education, was credited with leading the school to its highest growth on a major state test.

The Fischer position drew 62 applications.

According to the Illinois Report Card, 52 percent of Fischer's 550 students are considered low-income, a far greater rate than other local schools. Nearly 20 percent of students are listed as Hispanic. It is the site of the district's dual-language program.

Northwood Middle School has similar demographics, with 48 percent of students low-income and 25 percent Hispanic. It has 491 students.

In a statement, Martinez said the new job fits well with his experience.

"My passion for promoting cultural awareness and bilingual education aligns perfectly with the school's mission," he said.