Chester-East Lincoln hires new administrator
Statement from Board President Jeff Brooks

[May 18, 2015]  LINCOLN - At a special board meeting held on Thursday, May 14th the Chester-East Lincoln Board of Education hired Laura Irwin to replace Jennifer Hamm, who has resigned effective June 30, 2015. Board President Jeff Brooks said “the board was very fortunate to be able to fill the position in a timely manner.”

Mrs. Irwin has been a Lincoln Elementary District 27 Employee for over 12 years. During her tenure with LESD 27, she served as a sixth grade teacher, a kindergarten teacher, and the Principal of Central School.

Mrs. Irwin holds a BA in Elementary Education from ISU, along with a MA in Educational Leadership and an Educational Specialist Degree from EIU.

Mrs. Irwin stated “I am very excited to pursue the next chapter of my career and serve this community in a new capacity. Chester East Lincoln School is very important to me. I live in the district. My children attended school there as well as my siblings. My goal is to come into the position and do a great deal of listening as well as build relationships with all stakeholders.

"I am committed to this community and to the success of the students. I have a passion for the role that CEL plays in the community and look forward to meeting the needs of the teachers, students, and parents. I am passionate about growing a positive school culture that is safe and promotes student achievement. I’d like to develop a team that involves all stakeholders. I am a committed lifelong learner and believe it is my calling to make a difference in the lives of students in this community and to lead others to make a difference as well. I’m married to Tom. We have two kids – Clay (20) and Jenna (18). We are all excited about the new role I will play at CEL.”

Other action the board took was the appointment of two new board members. Dwane Morris was appointed to the vacant 4-year term which was not filled during the last election. Brandi Splitter was appointed to fill the term of Ben Roland, who resigned from the board April 30th.

[Jeff Brooks, Chester-East Lincoln School Board President]

Past related article
CEL Board hires new superintendent/principal amid controversy