Aurora D131 Superintendent Resigns For New Role

AURORA, IL — The East Aurora School District 131 Board of Education has commenced the search for a new superintendent as Jennifer Norrell resigned for a new opportunity, officials said.

Norrell, who helmed the district for seven years, made district history when she became its first female superintendent. She was hired as the new superintendent of Homewood-Flossmoor Community High School District 233, where she'll begin July 1.

The move will take her back to the south suburbs where she was born and raised and where her daughter attended Flossmoor schools, according to a news release from District 233.

"I am truly honored to have served this incredible community," Norrell said in a statement. "Our students, staff, teachers, and families have been at the heart of everything we've accomplished together. As I continue to serve EASD 131 through the end of the 2024–2025 school year, I remain dedicated to ensuring a seamless transition for the next Superintendent. I deeply appreciate the partnerships and commitment that have made my time here so meaningful."

In Aurora, the Board of Education approved an agreement to hire search firm BWP & Associates to find its next superintendent.

District officials said they will update the community about developments throughout the process. According to a news release, the district plans to release soon information on the stakeholder input in developing the leadership profile.

"We're committed to finding a leader who aligns with our district vision and will continue to prioritize our students' success," Annette Johnson, D131 Board of Education president, said in a statement. "This process will involve engaging focus groups with staff, parents and community members to ensure we identify someone who meets our high expectations. While we're sad to see Dr. Jennifer Norrell go, we fully support her decision and are confident she'll excel in her next chapter, just as she has here."