Board names Dr. Dana Smith next superintendent of Palatine CCSD 15, to start July 1
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Summary
The board selected Dr. Dana Smith, currently superintendent at Flossmoor School District 161, to lead Palatine CCSD 15 beginning July 1, 2026; Dr. Smith highlighted experience in elementary settings and transition plans.
The Palatine Community Consolidated School District 15 board announced Feb. 4 that it selected Dr. Dana Smith as the district’s next superintendent, with an official start date of July 1, 2026.
Board members said Smith demonstrated qualities the community prioritized in the superintendent search — experience across classroom, school and district leadership; equity-focused practice; and strong communication and budget oversight. The transcript records the board welcoming the Smith family and praising his record in prior roles.
Dr. Smith addressed the meeting and thanked the board for its confidence, saying he looked forward to meeting school and community members during the transition and to building on existing district work. The transcript notes Dr. Smith comes from Flossmoor School District 161, where he has served as superintendent since 2017, and previously served as assistant superintendent for early childhood and elementary education in Woodstock Unit School District 200.
Board members said the selection followed a comprehensive search informed by staff and community surveys and focus groups. No contract details (salary or term) were discussed in the public meeting record included in the transcript. The board and administrators said they expect a transition period between the announcement and the July 1 start date.
Next steps: the district will coordinate onboarding and community meetings to introduce Dr. Smith to staff, students and families before his official start date.
