After three years of outstanding service, Denise Matthews, Director of Special Education, is leaving District 90 to become the Director of Student Services, Equity, and Inclusion for the Winnetka School District 36. Ms. Matthews will remain in her current role with District 90 until starting her new position on July 1, 2021.
An energetic leader, Ms. Matthews’ compassion for students with special needs has helped advance the social-emotional wellness for all students. She has been an incredible asset to D90 and has earned the trust and confidence of parents, faculty, and staff, as well as the District’s community partners
Prior to coming to District 90, Ms. Matthews served as the Assistant Director of Specialized Student Services for Compliance for District U-46. She has served as an Assistant Principal at Westmont High School in Westmont, IL, and Gwendolyn Brooks Middle School in Oak Park, IL. Denise Matthews holds two masters’ degrees from DePaul University in Chicago, one in Educational Leadership and Administration and the other in Language, Literacy, and Specialized Instruction. She received a bachelor’s degree from the University of Belize in Belize City, Belize.
As the Director of Student Services, Equity, and Inclusion for the Winnetka School District 36, Ms. Matthews will coordinate student services for five schools (three K-4 schools and two schools that comprise the middle school campus). Winnetka School District 36 supports nearly 1,700 students and about 350 staff members.
The search for Ms. Matthews’ successor will begin in December, and a search firm will assist with the selection process. The goal is to have someone chosen for the position and in place by July 1, 2021. As with all of our vacancies, the District will be looking for an individual with a great deal of expertise, a strong professional background, and a strong desire to serve our students, families, school system, and community. District 90 families will receive periodic updates about the progress of the search.