Larson to retire in 2025; superintendent search to begin
Glenbard District 87 Superintendent David Larson, who has been Glenbard superintendent since 2012, will retire at the end of the 2024-25 school year. Board of Education President Margaret DeLaRosa said, “Dr. Larson is an education leader who has consistently exceeded district goals. He initiated and nurtured a culture of academic achievement, equity, innovation and instructional excellence. He has led District 87 to adopt a growth mindset both inside and outside the classroom, while being recognized for fiscal stewardship. His leadership style is collaborative, respectful and sincere. The team and systems he has put in place reflect that culture. We are excited to have Dr. Larson in place through the 2024-25 school year as we select our next leader and work through a successful transition of leadership.”
Dr. Larson has been an educator for 44 years, the past 25 as superintendent. Prior to Glenbard District 87, he served at three school districts in Michigan, the Singapore American School, and the Palm Beach County School District in Florida. During the past 12 years at the helm of District 87, Dr. Larson has fostered an environment where students grow in their character and thrive academically; teachers and staff are valued and supported; and parents and community members are appreciated and heard. Specifically, he has worked diligently to build a culture of esteem and belonging for all within the diverse Glenbard D87 community.
Dr. Larson’s contributions have greatly impacted student achievement. He led a multi-year strategic work planning process that includes building-led targets, metrics, customized tactics, and strategies resulting in strong teaching and learning practices that focus on student academic achievement. Among the many successes are a Physics and Algebra II with Trigonometry course sequence for all students, high levels of Advanced Placement and Dual Credit participation, a record percentage of students graduating with early college credit, outperforming in ACT/SAT scores, and increasing college enrollment and college completion.
Additionally, Dr. Larson facilitated a student, staff and community engagement process to develop Glenbard’s Profile of a Graduate, which identifies the knowledge, skills and experiences students need to prepare for their future in a changing world. He also guided Glenbard’s successful 2024 facility improvements referendum, which will allow the implementation of Glenbard’s new 10-year Master Facility Plan.
In preparation for Dr. Larson’s retirement in summer 2025, board members will begin the search for the next superintendent. They will interview superintendent search firms to assist in finding Dr. Larson’s successor. The board will discuss the search process when they meet at 7 p.m. Tuesday, May 28, at the District Administrative Center, 596 Crescent Blvd. in Glen Ellyn.
Board members are committed to finding a strong candidate pool and ultimately the best person to lead Glenbard District 87 in the future.
Superintendent David Larson, Ed.D.