Community Unit School District 300 Seeks New Principal for Jacobs High

Community Unit School District 300 is actively searching for a new principal for Jacobs High School in Algonquin. This follows the announcement that the current principal, Chris Testone, will transition to a districtwide role as assistant superintendent of high schools at the conclusion of the current academic year. This move is set to take effect on July 1, 2024, according to a recent news release from the district.

Jacobs High School, which serves approximately 2,000 students, will be looking for a successor who can provide “excellent leadership” to the school community. Testone, who began his tenure at Jacobs in 2023, previously held the position of principal at Burlington Central High School and served as an assistant principal at Dundee Middle School in West Dundee. As of September, Testone’s salary was reported at just over $191,600.

The district has outlined several key characteristics it seeks in an ideal candidate. Among these are the ability to inspire and lead instructional and support services teams effectively. The new principal will also be responsible for providing instructional leadership and organizational management to enhance the educational development of each student while adhering to national, state, and local educational standards.

In addition, the new principal will need to focus on setting and achieving high standards of excellence. This includes strategically implementing the school’s mission through effective collaboration with all stakeholders, including faculty, staff, students, parents, and the wider community. The role requires planning, developing, implementing, leading, and evaluating the school’s progress in line with the district’s vision and strategic direction.

The new principal will also oversee all aspects of the instructional program, the school environment, and ensure the operational and fiscal health of Jacobs High School. A strong emphasis will be placed on utilizing available resources to help students reach their potential as self-directed learners and responsible citizens.

For those interested in applying, a full job description and application details are available on the district’s website at d300.org/employmentopportunities. The search for a new principal underscores the district’s commitment to maintaining high educational standards and fostering a supportive learning environment for all students.