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Head of Early Childhood Search Complete
Head of School, John Melton, is excited to announce the appointment of Abby Acuna as LFCDS' Head of Early Childhood Elect.
Dear LFCDS Community,
I want to thank you for your partnership and engagement as we’ve conducted a search for our next Head of Early Childhood. After having three finalists visit campus, reviewing the feedback from the community surveys and receiving a unanimous recommendation from our Search Committee, I am proud to announce that Abby Acuna will be joining Lake Forest Country Day School as our new Head of Early Childhood, beginning July 1, 2025. Abby brings with her a wealth of independent school experience, a passion for early childhood education, and a leadership approach deeply rooted in the spirit of partnership.
Since 2022, Abby has served as the Assistant Principal – Early Childhood at Francis Xavier Warde School in Chicago. Prior to that, she spent 10 years as an early childhood teacher and administrator at the Catherine Cook School. With a career dedicated to fostering the growth and development of young learners, Abby has consistently demonstrated her ability to create environments where children thrive both academically and emotionally. Her thoughtful and intentional leadership style, informed by years of classroom and leadership experience, makes her an exciting addition to our LFCDS community.
In evaluating Abby as a candidate, it was clear from the Search Committee, her references, and her visit how compelling of a fit Abby is to lead the Early Childhood vision at LFCDS. Members of our community noted being drawn to someone who was “warm” and “genuine” and had “ease” interacting with students, staff, and parents alike. She is a bona fide subject matter expert in early childhood education and a natural leader who listens as well as she articulates her love of teaching and learning. With an extensive background in peer Chicagoland independent school communities, Abby is well-positioned to make an immediate impact as the newest member of the LFCDS leadership team.
I want to extend my gratitude to our Search Committee, chaired by former teacher-student duo turned colleagues, Annie Johnson and Molly Finch. The Committee, comprised of Jennifer Farrell, Jessica Murphy, Kristina Parker, Marcia Peterson, and Danette Soukup, were exceptional ambassadors for LFCDS to an international pool of applicants. I hope you will join me in thanking them for their service in leading LFCDS in this important endeavor.
There will be opportunities to welcome Abby and celebrate Sara Walsh in the coming months. I look forward to coming together as a community for those meaningful moments. Until then, go Panthers!
John
A co-educational independent private school for students age 2 through Grade 8.
Graduating students of strong character with a passion for learning since 1888.
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Graduating students of strong character with a passion for learning since 1888.
Schedule a tour!
