D181 board approves two new administrators

On May 21, 2018, the Community Consolidated School District 181 Board of Education approved two administrative appointments, effective July 1. Kristin Cummings was selected as the next principal of Prospect Elementary School and Dana Bergthold was appointed as Executive Director of Special Education.

Ms. Bergthold, of Frankfort, has broad experience in student services and special education. She has served as Director of Student Services in Indian Prairie School District 204 in Naperville and Aurora, and in District 230 in Orland Park. In District 230, she led the special education program, managed federal grant monies and led professional development, among other work. She began her education career as a school psychologist in two different districts, later moving up to Assistant Director of Pupil Personnel Services in New Lenox District 122.

Incoming District 181 Superintendent Dr. Hector Garcia said that Ms. Bergthold has shown outstanding insight and experience into supporting students at multiple grade levels. “Over the years, she has made a concerted effort to work closely with staff members and parents to develop the sort of partnerships that are essential for supporting students,” he said. “Ms. Bergthold will be a great addition to the strong learning environment at District 181.”

Ms. Bergthold said she is honored to have the opportunity to work in such a supportive community. “The District's high expectations for all students align perfectly with my personal beliefs and I look forward to collaborating with parents, teachers, administrators and community members,” she said. “I plan to continue strengthening the well-developed foundation for learning while continuing to develop innovative ways for students to reach their full potential.”

She has a Master of Arts in School Leadership from Olivet Nazarene University, a Master of Arts in Psychology and School Psychology from Governors State University and a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from University of St. Francis. She is working toward her Doctorate in Education at the University of St. Francis.

Kristin Cummings, of Naperville, comes to District 181 with wide experience as an education leader in Naperville School District 203. She has served as assistant principal for six years and has served as instructional coordinator coach and mentor to new assistant principals. She began her career teaching second and fourth grades.

“Ms. Cummings comes to District 181 with vast experience working in collaborative environments keenly focused on student learning and community engagement,” said Dr. Garcia. “She brings the sort of energy, enthusiasm, and work ethic that will undoubtedly help her make a smooth transition to the Prospect Elementary family.”

Ms. Cummings has a Master of Education in Interdisciplinary Studies Curriculum and Instruction from National Louis University, a Bachelor of Arts in Education from Western Michigan University and additional coursework in school leadership from Concordia University. She has received a state Those Who Excel Award in three different areas: administrator, team and support staff.

“It is a great opportunity to lead by building strong relationships with students, staff, and parents,” she said. I look forward to creating an environment that captures academic excellence, development of the whole student, and preparing all students for the 21st century,” she said.

Dr. Garcia worked with the search firm BWP & Associates in identifying potential candidates for the position and in narrowing the pool of candidates. Stakeholder interview teams provided additional feedback to help inform Dr. Garcia’s recommendation for the positions.