The Abingdon-Avon School District is continuing to look into a data breach that happened in January. But one person who will no longer be involved in the investigation is Chad Willis. He's stepping down as superintendent to take charge of the Indian Creek School District in Shabbona, IL -- and his first day there is this Friday (July 1).
Attempts to reach out to Willis to discuss the job change went unanswered. Board President Dave Serven didn’t comment when asked if the data breach case played a role in Willis leaving Abingdon-Avon.
Serven did praise Willis for helping improve the district’s financial picture after the consolidation of the Abingdon and Avon School Districts, and he praised Willis for his work on technology and curriculum.
“I look at the One-to-One Initiative that, when the schools consolidated, we put Chromebooks and iPads in the hands of every student,” Serven said.
Serven added that Willis’ departure will put the district in a tough spot. He said Willis notified the board of his plans just last Friday (June 24), and most districts in the state have their administrative teams in place for Fiscal Year 2017, which begins this Friday (July 1).
“You’re just not going to get as many candidates as you would like,” Serven said. “And when your pool’s smaller, then chances are there’s not going to be somebody there that you really like as much.”
Serven said the district will look to hire a retired superintendent to fill the role on an interim basis until a permanent hire can be made. He said that will give the board more time to find the right person for the job.
