On Thursday, Jan. 25, at 7 p.m., Board of Education President Bob Brown announced that Dr. Kurt Johansen has been selected by the Board to permanently replace Dr. Moses Cheng, who parted ways with District 94 last year.
Following a search that involved surveys and interviews, the gap in the role was finally filled by Johansen, who has over a decade of experience in an administrative setting. He was most recently the principal of South Elgin High School and was an assistant principal for over seven years in the Glenbard district. Johansen also taught in the special education department at various schools for six years, often while simultaneously working as a football coach.
A live stream was aired on YouTube, where Brown was seen reporting the update and then called Johansen to the podium to share some words.
“I would like to thank the members of the Board of Education, for not only providing me with this incredible opportunity but for [their] high level of professionalism throughout this entire process,” Johansen said.
The livestream cut out before Johansen’s speech could be concluded.
Dr. Moses Cheng previously held the position of Superintendent, however, he mutually agreed with the Board to terminate his contract on June 30 of last year. As a result, Dr. Attila Weninger and Mr. John Langton shared the responsibility of the role on an interim basis during the 2023-2024 school year.
The selection process started in October, 2023, when BWP & Associates search firm was hired; approximately 35 qualified candidates applied. The Board of Education interviewed six “exceptional candidates”, according to a press release, and then reduced the pool to just three finalists. According to Brittney Walker, Communications & Community Relations Coordinator, “Community input was integral to the decision-making process.” The Board’s decision to hire Johansen was ultimately unanimous.
Johansen is expected to start as the next head of the district on July 1.
“I am honored to serve as your next Superintendent,” Johansen said.
