Superintendent – Sycamore, IL
Job Description
Empowering All Learners to Succeed in Their World
Sycamore Community School District 427 is seeking a visionary leader to guide a thriving learning community into its next chapter of growth and achievement. Located in the heart of Northern Illinois, approximately 60 miles west of Chicago, the district has built a strong foundation of academic excellence, innovative teaching, and nurturing environments that prepare students for success in an ever-changing world.
As the next district leader, you will have the opportunity to build upon our comprehensive educational offerings, from dedicated early childhood programs through rigorous high school experiences that honor both tradition and innovation. You will work alongside passionate educators, supportive families, and an engaged community, all united in ensuring every child grows academically, socially, and personally.
Executive Skill Profile and Competencies
Leadership Presence & Style
- Strong executive presence with proven servant leadership
- Inspires confidence while leading with empathy
- Connects with staff with high EQ
- Courage to make hard decisions and push back when necessary
Accountability & Clarity
- Holds everyone accountable with objectivity
- Provides clear direction and explains the “why”—even when it’s unpopular
- Brings clarity to complexity
Strategic & Operational Expertise
- Fiscally and operationally sound with large district or scale experience
- Strong in governance, policy, and procedures
- Data and technically proficient
- Proven track record moving a unified vision forward
District & Community Leadership
- Has built strong teams and knows how to position talent
- Leads both the district and community as one
- Proven and competent leader who earns trust through action
Pedagogical Foundation
- A strong pedagogical foundation that ensures all decisions are grounded in what’s best for students
- An ability to combine educational expertise with the ability to honor both tradition and innovation in comprehensive K-12 programming.
Position Qualifications
- A Terminal Degree (Preferred)
- Illinois Professional Education License with Administrator and Superintendent Endorsement; and
- Demonstrated success leading comparative district(s).
- A proven strategic and visionary educational leader; and
- Demonstrated executive presence, leadership, collaborative team builder, and governance/board relations.
Compensation and Benefits
A regionally competitive compensation package of a minimum of $225,000, commensurate with education and comparable experience.
Application Requirements and Timeline
Please submit an electronic application by November 5, 2025. Applications should include:
- An electronic portfolio (no more than three pages) with evidence of competencies and skill expectations specifically aligned to this position; once the profile is complete on September 30.
- A professional résumé or CV;
- Three professional letters of reference containing full contact information; and
- A one-page (12-point, double-spaced) written response to “Sycamore School District First 100-Day Plan.”
Please contact the HYA Associates listed below if you have any questions. Do not contact the Board of Education or other school district officials.
Dr. Lynn Burks Dr. Kerry Foderaro
Associate Associate
LynnBurks@HYAsearch.com KerryFoderaro@HYAsearch.com
630/816-8109 630/835-8880
How to apply for this job?
- Register for an account on the HYA website. Or, log in to the HYA website if you already have an account created. Click the Login/Register button at the top of the page to get started.
- After logging in, click the Apply Now button at the top of this page.
- You will be redirected to the Frontline Education website. This website is where you will submit your application. This website also will require its own unique login and password.
