Board approves personnel report; district names new principals for South Middle and Dryden Elementary

The Arlington Heights School District 25 board approved its consent agenda on Jan. 14, which included the personnel report and addendum. The motion to approve the consent agenda was made by Kevin, seconded by Anisha, and passed on a roll‑call vote of 5–0.

Following that approval, the board and district staff introduced two administrators who will lead schools starting in the 2025–26 school year. Kendra Perry announced that Steve Prorock, who had been serving as assistant principal at South Middle School and previously served as assistant principal at Gower Middle School, will be the next principal at South. Kendra said Prorock "has consistently demonstrated his unwavering commitment to fostering meaningful connections with students and staff alike." Prorock told the board he was honored to accept the role and said, "First and foremost, what SOUTH stands for is doing what's best for students, and we're gonna continue that."

The board also introduced Jessica Martinson as the new principal of Dryden Elementary School. Kendra said Martinson brings experience as an assistant principal in District 300, roles as an instructional coach and reading specialist, and that she is a long‑time Arlington Heights resident. Martinson addressed the board and said she was "excited to work together" with the school community and help "raise really wonderful young adults."

Ending: Both appointments were announced following the consent vote that included the personnel report. The board said it will schedule community meet‑and‑greet events and support transition work for both schools ahead of the 2025–26 school year.