BOE approves DW Assistant Principals

Please join Principal Jessica Groncki in welcoming Mrs. Nicole Barba, Assistant Principal, and Mr. David Herlocker, Assistant Principal of Student Services, to the Daniel Wright team. Both individuals bring a wealth of experience, a passion for student success, and a commitment to fostering a supportive and innovative school environment.

Mr. Herlocker is replacing Kyle Thompson, who accepted a position as Principal at North Shore Academy Elementary School, Highland Park. Mrs. Barba is taking over an assistant principal position that previously was shared by two individuals but has been combined into one full-time position.

Mrs. Nicole Barba comes to DW from Northwood Middle School in Highland Park, where she served as Assistant Principal. Her expertise in instructional coaching, particularly in supporting multilingual learners, along with her exceptional organizational skills, effective management of student discipline, and her ability to efficiently coordinate the complex schedules of a diverse student population make her an excellent addition to DW's leadership team.

Mr. David Herlocker most recently served as Assistant Principal at Deer Path Middle School in Lake Forest. With a strong background in supporting Student Services teams, Multi-Tiered System of Support intervention systems, and inclusive practices, he has been instrumental in fostering collaborative environments that prioritize student well-being, academic growth, and social-emotional development and will undoubtedly bring that same passion and expertise to his new role.