ATKINSON — Kathy Marshall has been appointed regional superintendent of schools for the Bureau, Henry, and Stark Regional Office of Education 28.
This announcement follows the retirement of Angie Zarvell. The appointment was for Marshall to serve out the remainder of Zarvell’s term.
The ROE superintendent is an elected position, but Marshall’s appointment came too late for her name to be on the ballot in the Nov. 5 election. She has filed as a write-in candidate and said Friday that as far as she knows, no one else has filed as a candidate.
Marshall has served as the assistant regional superintendent for ROE 28 since July of 2015, and brings extensive experience to her new role.
Prior to joining ROE 28, she was assistant regional superintendent and regional superintendent for Marshall, Putnam, and Woodford counties. Before serving in Regional Offices of Education, Marshall was a sixth-grade teacher in Peoria, and then a principal in Metamora since 2006.
ROE 28 covers 23 school districts in the three counties, with a total of around 50 school buildings, Marshall said.
“I’m excited and grateful for the opportunity to serve our area in this new role,” Marshall said. “I’m proud of the alternative school we’ve built, moving its location to our building and working closely with students in a rewarding and challenging environment.
“Additionally, I take pride in helping our districts navigate health/life safety needs, and managing the numerous policy changes and mandates schools face today,” said Marshall.
Marshall also expressed deep gratitude for her predecessor, Angie Zarvell. “I am thankful, and I know all of our staff and school districts are thankful to Angie for her leadership. She has provided a legacy of service to our region, and I certainly have big shoes to fill. I’m excited for her and wish her the very best.”
She continued, “I look forward to continuing partnerships with our school districts and exploring innovative ways to serve our communities. We are committed to expanding our programs, which serve individuals from birth to adulthood, to ensure we meet the needs of all students, families, and educators.”
Marshall, her husband, and their son reside in Colona and her son attends Geneseo High School.
In another development at the ROE, retired Kewanee School District administrator Chris Gustafson has been named interim assistant regional superintendent.
Marshall said Gustafson will serve in that position until June 30, 2025, after which a full-time appointment will be made.
