District 219 announced on Thursday, Jan. 21, 2016 that Dr. Mark Friedman will be the interim superintendent for the remaining school year.

The position of superintendent was previously held by Dr. Nanciann Gatta until she had been placed on paid leave by the district. Then the board and Gatta had reached separation agreements on Dec. 31, 2015. Since then, assistant superintendent of curriculum and instruction Anne Roloff, has been holding position of superintendent.

Friedman is a retired superintendent from the Libertyville school district where he held this position for 17 years. Currently, he is a partner with an educational leadership search firm, BWP and Associates.

The district is thankful to have an experienced leader help in this transitional period.

A statement released by board president Mark Sproat, said, “We are very fortunate to be able to rely on Dr. Friedman’s expertise and leadership to ensure that we maintain our focus on quality education and operational excellence throughout this transition.”

Friedman will be paid $1,400 per day for his services to the district until the end of the school year.

While Friedman will be serving, the board will be searching for a new and permanent superintendent.

“We are committed to developing and implementing a superintendent search process that is inclusive, transparent, and well planned,” said Sproat. “We remain dedicated to maintaining our high standards of teaching and learning in District 219. We appreciate your patience throughout this process.”