Dr. Beatrice Childress, assistant superintendent for equity and learning, introduces Dr. Astrid Rodrigues as the new director of teaching and learning for science and social studies

Julie Brash, the new assistant principal at Field Elementary School, addresses the board shortly after an introduction by Field Principal Crystal Jimenez (left)

The CCSD21 board of education on April 27 voted to appoint a new director of teaching and learning for science and social studies, along with a new assistant principal for Field Elementary School.

Dr. Astrid Rodrigues will join the district on July 1 in the director role, succeeding Chris Lapetino, who will shift to director of student enrichment and support. Lapetino will continue to work as part of the equity and learning team, but with a focus on supporting staff and students in specials, exploratory areas and school clubs and enrichment.

Rodrigues previously served as the principal of Americana Elementary School in Queen Bee School District 16 in Glendale Heights for the past five years. 

In recommending her approval, district administration noted Rodrigues is a “student-centered leader who is very passionate about learning.” Her expertise in science, technology, engineering and mathematics education also made her a strong candidate for the position.

“Queen Bee is also a very diverse school district, similar to ours, so we were really excited to be able to find a leader who had so much instructional as well as cultural expertise,” said Dr. Beatrice Childress, assistant superintendent for equity and learning. “I think that’s going to be a really great addition, not only to our E&L team, but also to our school district.”

“I look forward to bringing all of my cultural experiences, experiences in high school, when I used to teach math and science … and work with the students, the staff, administrators and everyone in District 21,” Rodrigues said.

Rodrigues’ annual salary will initially be $133,000 per year for a 12-month administrative contract plus the standard administrator benefit package.

Julie Brash is also set to join Field as assistant principal, effective July 1. She previously served as an instructional coach in Gurnee District 56.

District administration said Brash is “well-versed in curriculum planning due to her teaching experience and coaching role.”

“I’m excited to bring my positivity and trust in others to the students, families and staff at Field,” Brash said. “I have a vision that schools should be fun, engaging and rigorous for all learners. It’s important we take the time to get to know what makes each of us unique, be consistent in our interactions and hold one another to high expectations.”

Brash’s annual salary will initially be $80,000 per year for a 205-day administrative contract plus the standard administrator benefit package.