D-36 Superintendent Trisha Kocanda Resigns To Take Job In Mundelein

WINNETKA, IL — For the first time in eight years, Winnetka public schools are set to start a search for a new superintendent.

District 36 Superintendent Trisha Kocanda announced that she will resign to become superintendent of Fremont School District 79 in Mundelein, effective July 1.

"I am pursuing this opportunity after much careful, heartfelt consideration. I would like to express my deep appreciation for the enduring relationships we have built over the past 12 years. With these strong connections, we have been able to ensure students remain at the center of our decision-making," Kocanda said, in a message to families Wednesday night.

Kocanda started her career as a classroom teacher and summer school principal in Arlington Heights School District 25 and later spent five years working in a variety of roles in North Shore School District 112.

In 2010, Kocanda joined District 36, and she was promoted from assistant superintendent to superintendent following the 2014 resignation of Thomas Hagerman, who was recently named the next head of school of Latin School of Chicago.

"Leading this District has been a tremendous honor," Kocanda said in her message to families. "Our dedication to helping every child flourish both socially and academically is unwavering."

The outgoing superintendent said she was working closely with the board to develop a transition plan to ensure leadership continuity. She said the district's strategic plan will continue to guide decisions, and district officials would provide updates about the transition.

"We remain committed to Progressive Education and the values within our Portrait of a Graduate," she said. "With such a strong foundation, the District is well-positioned to carry-on the important strategic work related to literacy, increased middle school engagement, and facility planning."