Dear President Savage-Williams, Vice President Parsons and Board of Education Members:
I write as an Evanston resident of 24 years, a parent of three ETHS graduates (classes of 2014, 2016 and 2018), and a professional educator of 40 years to offer my highest recommendation to Dr. Marcus Campbell to succeed Dr. Witherspoon as Superintendent of District 202. I have observed Dr. Campbell from my multiple perspectives and can think of no one better nationally to assume this important role in our community.
Dr. Campbell is an excellent educator with a commitment to providing all students access to the highest instructional offerings available at ETHS. He cares deeply about the professional development of teachers and fulfills the role of Principal in its true definition – that of principal teacher. Dr. Campbell equally knows how to work with and motivate staff members to meet schoolwide goals. He has shown over the years a deep commitment to equity, not just in rhetoric but in action. He is accessible to students, parents and community members and an outstanding ambassador for the school. He understands the importance of supporting the social and emotional development of all students. He is an excellent steward of community resources. Dr. Campbell knows how to identify evidence-based best practices and does not shy away from using performance data for continuous improvement. Most importantly he cares about the healthy development of all students attending ETHS.
As Superintendent of District 65, I worked with Dr. Campbell as a community partner for over five years. He was the definition of an excellent partner – he kept lines of communication open, he spent time learning about our issues and hearing concerns, and he remained creative as we worked together to identify solution strategies. I have worked with a significant number of educators over the past four decades and am always looking to identify those with the potential to lead our schools and systems. Dr. Campbell stands out as one of the best educators and leaders I have ever had the privilege of knowing.
I strongly recommend, without hesitation, that you appoint Dr. Marcus Campbell as the next superintendent of District 202. He will continue to serve our community with distinction.
Sincerely,
Paul Goren
Director, Center for Efficacy, Excellence, and Equity, Northwestern University School of Education and Social Policy and former Superintendent of Schools, Evanston/Skokie District 65