CHICAGO, Ill. – Peoria Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Sharon Desmoulin-Kherat has been named the 2025 Illinois Superintendent of the Year.
The Illinois Association of School Administrators (IASA) chose Kherat citing “innovative approaches the district has taken to best serve a diverse student population.”
According to 25 News, the IASA specifically cited efforts to alleviate District 150’s teacher shortage, bringing community agencies together to help students and families needing support and services through the Wraparound Center, strengthening ties with Caterpillar to provide employment opportunities for PPS graduates, and improving students’ academic performance.
IASA also credited Superintendent Kherat for implementing a district-wide cellphone ban, changing to a yearlong calendar, introducing universal access to algebra for 8th graders, and leading the $11 million Peoria Stadium renovation.
The award was presented Saturday morning, during the joint annual conference of the IASA, the Illinois Association of School Boards (IASB), and the Illinois Association of School Business Officials (IASBO) in Chicago.
IASA Executive Director Dr. Brent Clark said in a statement that Kherat is a trailblazer and courageous leader.
“Dr. Sharon Desmoulin-Kherat stands out as a true innovator who fearlessly tackles our most complex educational challenges in public education,” said Clark. “From pioneering international teacher recruitment to creating comprehensive student support systems, her work in Peoria Public Schools demonstrates the power of bold, creative leadership.”
Kherat has been Peoria Public Schools’ superintendent for 10 years. She said in a statement that the honor reflects the work of her entire team.
“No significant achievement is the work of a single individual, and this award is no exception. Our journey may be demanding, but it is undeniably rewarding, bringing life-changing benefits to our children. What sets our district apart is our perspective on problems. We view them as opportunities, tirelessly striving to devise solutions to the most complex challenges.”
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