Mokena District 159 Approves New Superintendent

MOKENA, IL — District 159 has approved its new superintendent and it will be a familiar face to many in the Lincoln-Way area. The board approved the hiring of Dr. Mark Cohen, who previously served as principal of Lincoln-Way North High School before its closure in 2016.

The district said Cohen will begin as superintendent July 1, and will replace Dr. Don White, who will retire June 30.

“In the short period of time that Dr. White has served our district, we have made great strides under his leadership,” Board President Mike Everett said in a release. “We look forward to his continued commitment to our district through this transition and thank him for his contributions to our students, staff and community. We believe Dr. Cohen’s experience and knowledge will only build on the excellence that already exists in District 159. We believe he is the right fit, at the right time.”

According to the district, Cohen is currently the assistant superintendent of human resources in Elmhurst District 205. He has also served as Assistant Superintendent of Innovation and Growth at District 205. He was also previously principal and assistant principal at Lincoln-Way North, as well as a teacher in District 210.

Cohen's education includes a Doctor of Education degree from Loyola University in Chicago, a Master of Arts degree from Governors State University and a Bachelor of Science degree from Illinois State University, the district said. Cohen, a Tinley Park resident, is also involved in Chambers of Commerce, Lions and Kiwanis clubs. He is an active member in many professional organizations, such as American Association of School Administrators, DuPage Area Occupational Education System and Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development. Additionally, Cohen was named the 2004 Illinois Education Association Bob Haisman Teacher of the Year.

The district said it received 44 applicants for the superintendent position. The final round of interviews included two candidates who met with two interview committees comprised of District 159 administrators, members of the Mokena Teachers Association, members of the Mokena Classified Staff Association, community leaders and parents, and was followed by another extensive interview with the District 159 Board of Education.