Dr. Marta Mohammad will join the district as special education coordinator from Oak Park Elementary School District 97, where she has served as a lead teacher and special education department chair.
Erin Lim will join Frost as assistant principal, coming from Prospect Heights School District 23, where she most recently served as a special education specialist.
Sarah Swanson will serve as assistant principal at Longfellow. She most recently held the same role at Ellis Elementary School in Round Lake Area Schools District 116.
Tara Lenhoff will join the Rams at Riley Elementary School as the new principal. She joins the district
The Community Consolidated School District 21 Board of Education on April 16 approved the appointments of four administrators who will join the district’s leadership team for the 2026–27 school year, including a special education coordinator, two assistant principals and a principal.
Dr. Marta Mohammad will join the district as special education coordinator from Oak Park Elementary School District 97, where she has served as a lead teacher and special education department chair. District officials noted her experience mentoring new teachers and supporting program development.
In her new role, Dr. Mohammad will oversee the district’s compliance with state and federal special education requirements, support the consistent use of research-based practices, and develop resources for staff and families to strengthen academic and behavioral interventions.
“I am honored to step into the role of Special Education Coordinator and excited for the opportunity to contribute to the district in a meaningful way,” Dr. Mohammad said. “I look forward to bringing my experience, passion, and commitment to supporting diverse learners to this position, with a focus on ensuring that all students receive equitable, high-quality services that meet their individual needs.”
Erin Lim will join Frost as assistant principal, coming from Prospect Heights School District 23, where she most recently served as a special education specialist. District leaders highlighted her experience leading teams and developing programs and systems from the ground up.
“I am honored to take this next step in my career at Frost and feel deeply appreciative of the chance to serve in a new capacity,” Lim said. “I can’t wait to partner with and learn from the dedicated team of educators in CCSD21 and this wonderful community.”
Sarah Swanson will serve as assistant principal at Longfellow. She most recently held the same role at Ellis Elementary School in Round Lake Area Schools District 116. District officials described Swanson as a respected leader with a strong background in teaching and learning, as well as a demonstrated commitment to integrity and collaboration.
“I am excited to bring my experiences to the district and to continue learning and growing as an educational leader,” Swanson said. “I look forward to partnering with staff, students and families to support a positive and successful school community at Longfellow.”
In their roles, Lim and Swanson will support daily operations, student services and instructional leadership within their respective schools.
Tara Lenhoff will join Riley as principal. She has served for the past three years as assistant principal at Prairie Trail School in Gurnee School District 56 and previously worked as a classroom teacher, literacy coach, instructional coach and Thinking Maps trainer. District officials said Lenhoff is known for her collaborative approach and commitment to supporting all members of the school community.
As principal, Lenhoff will guide the school’s vision, support staff development and continue building a positive and engaging learning environment for all students.
“I am thrilled for the opportunity to serve the Riley students, staff and community,” Lenhoff said. “I am looking forward to working together to create better outcomes for all of Riley’s students!”
Superintendent Dr. Michael Connolly said each of the new administrators brings “unique strengths and a shared dedication” to students, families and staff.
“We are excited to welcome them to our district and look forward to the positive impact they will have in our schools,” Connolly said.
All appointments take effect July 1.
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