Paris-Union’s Larson named Superintendent of Distinction

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Paris-Union’s Larson named Superintendent of Distinction

SPRINGFIELD—Dr. Jeremy Larson, superintendent of Paris-Union School District No. 95, has been named the 2022 Superintendent of Distinction by his colleagues in the Illini Region of the Illinois Association of School Administrators (IASA).

Larson was honored at an awards luncheon May 4 in Springfield.  State Superintendent Dr. Carmen Ayala was the featured speaker, where 21 IASA regional Superintendents of Distinction were recognized.

“Students in rural, small school districts should not receive any fewer resources than students attending large school districts. It has been my pleasure to work with a community that competes at the state and federal levels to bring opportunities and resources to our students, their families and the small businesses of Paris, Illinois,” said Larson, who has been an educator for 13 years and superintendent of Paris-Union School District No. 95 for six years. “The assertation of this award is not only an acknowledgment of my work, but it is an acknowledgment of our community as a whole for the work we have accomplished on behalf of our children.”

Those nominating Larson noted a number of successes during his tenure including:

• Wrote and received over $6 million dollars in competitive grants to increase mental health supports and after-school programs.
• Developed the Paris Alternative Learning Site and Adult Education Center to support students and adults seeking high school diplomas, jobs and career-ready skills.
• Renovated Allen Field Athletic Facilities to build back pride in the Paris-Union community.
• Led initiatives to update all technology internally in the school district and provide every student with their own laptop for home use.
• Strengthened relationships with students, teachers, families, community members and local organizations to build a positive, cohesive system that works to support students.

The Illini Region is comprised of Champaign, Vermillion, Douglas, Edgar and Coles counties. Superintendents of Distinction were selected by peers in their region based on their commitment, dedication and leadership.

“Superintendents across Illinois navigated immense challenges this school year, so it really is an honor to standout and be recognized by your peers for outstanding leadership and elevating student success,” said IASA Executive Director Dr. Brent Clark. “Each of these superintendents are great examples of how strong leadership can improve the educational environment for students, strengthen communities and continuously push districts forward.”

The eighth annual luncheon was again sponsored by Horace Mann, one of the nation’s largest insurers focusing on the needs of educators.

“Superintendents continued to face unprecedented challenges this school year as students and teachers returned to the classroom,” said Marita Zuraitis, Horace Mann President and CEO. “Strong leadership has never been more critical.  We are proud to recognize these Superintendents of Distinction for navigating their districts through the ongoing pursuit of providing a quality education for their students.”