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South Holland School District 151 Appoints Dr. Kathryn Varner as New Superintendent
South Holland, Illinois — The Board of Education of South Holland School District 151 is proud to announce the appointment of Dr. Kathryn Varner as the District’s next Superintendent, effective July 1, 2026.
Dr. Varner brings more than 25 years of dedicated service to South Holland School District 151 and a deep understanding of the students, families, staff, and community she will now lead. A lifelong educator and experienced district leader, Dr. Varner has built a distinguished career grounded in instructional excellence, collaboration, innovation, and student-centered leadership.
Currently serving as the District’s Director of Curriculum, Assessment, Professional Development, and English Language Learners, Dr. Varner has played a critical role in advancing teaching and learning initiatives throughout the district. Her previous leadership experiences include serving as Coordinator of Technology, Math, and Assessment, as well as classroom teaching roles at both Coolidge Middle School and Madison School.
“Dr. Varner’s passion for students, extensive experience within District 151, and unwavering commitment to educational excellence made her the clear choice to lead our district into the future,” said the South Holland School District 151 Board of Education. “Her vision, integrity, and collaborative leadership style will continue to strengthen our schools and support the success of every student.”
Born and raised in Riverdale, Illinois, Dr. Varner has strong roots in the South Suburban community and values the importance of family, relationships, and community partnership. She has consistently demonstrated a leadership philosophy centered on empathy, transparency, data-informed decision-making, and building long-term organizational capacity through distributed leadership.
“I am deeply honored and humbled to serve as the next Superintendent of South Holland School District 151,” said Dr. Varner. “This district has been my professional home for more than two decades, and I am incredibly proud of the work we have accomplished together. I look forward to continuing our commitment to student achievement, supporting our dedicated staff, and strengthening our partnerships with families and the community.”
Dr. Varner’s academic credentials reflect her lifelong commitment to learning and educational leadership. She earned a Bachelor of Arts in Law and Society and Psychology from Purdue University, a Master of Education in Teaching from Chicago State University, a Master of Arts in Educational Administration from Governors State University, a Master’s endorsement in English as a Second Language from Benedictine University, and a Doctorate in Educational Leadership from Loyola University Chicago.
The Board of Education expressed its confidence that Dr. Varner’s leadership will continue to move the district forward while honoring the strong traditions and values that define South Holland School District 151.
About South Holland School District 151
South Holland School District 151 is committed to providing high-quality educational opportunities that empower all students to achieve academic success and become productive, responsible citizens. The district prides itself on fostering a supportive, student-centered learning environment built on strong partnerships among schools, families, and the community.
