After nine years leading Flossmoor School District 161, Superintendent Dana Smith announced he will step down at the end of the school year.
Smith made the announcement at the Board of Education meeting Tuesday, Feb. 10, telling board members he has accepted a superintendent position with Community Consolidated School District 15 in Palatine.
As part of his superintendent’s report to the board, Smith said: “On a personal note, this will be my final school year in Flossmoor School District 161,” Smith said. “Last meeting, I was appointed to be the next leader of Community Consolidated School District 15 in Palatine, Illinois. I will begin that role on July 1.”
“I’m truly thankful for the support of the board of education, our staff, parents and students who have trusted me over the years,” he said. “I’m just so proud of the work we’ve done together.”
Board President David Linnear thanked Smith following the announcement.
“Thank you for your work and for all the work that you’ve done for Flossmoor School District 161,” Linnear said. “We have worked to deliver a great opportunity for children and families, and I am proud of the work accomplished.”
Linnear said, “Please be on the lookout for more information regarding our next steps.”
After his first four years with the district, Smith received a five-year contract renewal in 2021 that runs through June 30, 2026. At the time, board members cited academic progress and noted that the district had earned two “exemplary” ratings from the Illinois State Board of Education during Smith’s tenure.
During his time in District 161, Smith oversaw the development of STEAM labs in all four elementary schools, added a community engagement committee and led various infrastructure improvements. The district also launched events such as the Back to School Bash and has partnered with City Year AmeriCorps since 2024.
Smith came to Flossmoor from Woodstock Community Unit School District 200, where he served as assistant superintendent for early childhood and elementary education, overseeing curriculum and instruction for seven elementary schools.
He began his career in education as a classroom teacher for grades three through six and later served as assistant principal, principal and director of teaching and learning.
Raised in Park Forest, Smith is a graduate of Marian Catholic High School. He earned a bachelor’s degree in educational studies from Illinois Wesleyan University, a master’s degree in educational leadership and administration from North Central College, and a doctorate of education from DePaul University.
Preceding Smith, former District 161 Superintendent Craig Doster served six years before the board approved a separation agreement in November 2015. Michael Popp then served as interim superintendent for one year before Smith was hired.
In a statement to the Chronicle, Smith said, “I have been fortunate to be able to spend nine wonderful years working with incredible students, families and staff members in Flossmoor District 161 and this community will always hold a special place in my heart.”
