Northbrook District 28 selects new Westmoor principal

Maria Eck, who has 12 years experience as a principal of elementary, middle and high schools, will take the helm at Westmoor School beginning July 1.

Eck developed her leadership skills in Fairfax County schools in Virginia, where she worked for 18 years. She currently is the principal of Spring Hill Elementary School in McLean, Virginia.

The Northbrook District 28 school board approved a recommendation to hire Eck by Superintendent Jason Pearson at its April 25 meeting.

Eck replaces Mary Sturgill, who has accepted an administrative position with another district.

Ending a comprehensive search process, Eck was among eight candidates selected to interview with the administrative team, and among five finalists who interviewed with a team of Westmoor teachers and parents.

"The Westmoor community identified through survey feedback that they wanted someone who makes decisions in the best interest of students, has excellent communication skills, and shows warmth, humor, and interest in others," Pearson said. "Ms. Eck comes to Northbrook 28 with extensive experience as a school leader, and her skills and background are a perfect match for Westmoor Elementary School."

Eck began her career at Miami-Dade County Public Schools in Florida as an elementary teacher, including gifted, talented and bilingual education. She also was an assistant principal for an elementary school there before moving to Virginia in 2005.

Eck has a master's degree in educational leadership from Nova Southeastern University in Miami, and earned a bachelor's degree in elementary education cum laude at Florida International University. She is working on her dissertation for a doctoral degree in educational leadership from Virginia Tech.

"I look forward to getting to know the students, collaborating with staff and working together with families to continue to build on the welcoming culture of Westmoor School," Eck said in a video to parents.