District 113 Names New Superintendent

Township High School District 113, which covers both Highland Park and Deerfield high schools, has a new superintendent.

Laurie Kimbrel, Ed.D was selected unanimously by the board of education on Monday to succeed Dr. George Fornero upon his retirement on July 1.

“Through our interview process and site visit, it became clear that Dr. Kimbrel is an articulate, thoughtful communicator and dynamic leader who fosters an atmosphere of collaboration, innovation and trust, and always puts student learning and well-being first,” said Board President Marjie Sandlow.

Kimbrel has served seven years as a superintendent, all at Tamalpais Union High School District near San Francisco.

“I am both excited and honored to have the opportunity to join the District 113 team as the next superintendent,” Kimbrel said. “I have deep respect for the tradition of excellence at both Deerfield and Highland Park High Schools and I look forward to working collaboratively with staff, students, parents and the communities to ensure that our students are prepared to be the leaders of the future.”

A press release from the District late Monday indicated accomplishments under Kimbrel’s leadership there include “creating and executing a strategic plan with extensive stakeholder input and feedback, modernizing all school sites via a $200 million bond program and maintaining a balanced budget.”

Kimbrel isn’t new to the Chicago-area, or the North Shore. She previously spent six years as an administrator in Grayslake Community High School District 127 and five years as an administrator in Lake Forest High School District 115.