Katie O'Brien Named Principal of Lincoln Early Learning Center

Katie O'Brien has been named the new principal for Lincoln Early Learning Center beginning July 1, 2023. Lincoln Early Learning Center serves preschool and early childhood students from Hawthorn School District 73, Mundelein School District 75, and Fremont School District 79.

"Katie's strong instructional leadership background, coupled with her commitment to building positive relationships, made her the ideal candidate," said Fremont School District 79 Superintendent of Schools Dr. Trisha Kocanda who headed the search process. "She cares deeply about young learners and supporting staff and families. We are excited to welcome her to our Lincoln community."

O'Brien joins Lincoln after most recently serving as a Teacher on Special Assignment at District 46 in Grayslake. In that role, she has led staff development and the mentoring of new staff members. She previously served as an instructional coach and reading specialist at District 46. O'Brien was a kindergarten and first-grade teacher at Lake Bluff School District 65 after starting her professional career as a first-grade and second-grade teacher at Woodland School District 50.

She earned her bachelor's degree in elementary education from Loras College before earning master's degrees in educational leadership and literacy education from Northeastern Illinois University.

"I am honored to have the opportunity to serve as the principal of Lincoln Early Learning Center,"O'Brien said. "I look forward to leading alongside the staff as they set the foundation for our youngest students to become lifelong learners. I'm excited to meet more of the staff and families in the upcoming months to build a collaborative culture together."