Hinsdale Principal Leaving After 4 Years

HINSDALE, IL – Barbara Shanahan, Madison Elementary School's principal, is leaving in June after four years at the helm.

The information on Shanahan's departure was included on the personnel report for Monday's meeting of the Hinsdale School District 181 board.

In 2021, Shanahan replaced Kim Rutan, who served the district for six years. Rutan left for a principal's position in Naperville School District 203.

Shanahan came to District 181 after 19 years with Frankfort School District 157-C. For the last three years, she was the assistant principal of Grand Prairie Elementary School.

Shanahan previously was an instructional coach and teacher leader. She began her career as a grade teacher in Frankfort.

District 181 spokesman Jeffrey Alstadt said the district learned a few weeks ago that Shanahan was taking a new position.

"We are saddened to see her leave, but understand she has a wonderful opportunity to grow professionally, and we wish her well," Alstadt said in an email to Patch. "As for the search process, we are looking to hire another outstanding leader and feel confident that the work that has taken place at Madison and District 181 over the last few years will help in our efforts."