Polo’s Mandrell Named Superintendent of Distinction
SPRINGFIELD---Dr. Kelly Mandrell, superintendent of Polo CUSD #222, has been named the 2026 Superintendent
of Distinction by her peers in the Northwest Region of the Illinois Association of School Administrators (IASA).
Mandrell was honored at an awards luncheon on April 23 in Springfield, where 21 regional Superintendents of
Distinction were recognized. Dr. Steven Isoye, Chair of the Illinois State Board of Education, served as the featured
speaker.
"I am deeply honored to receive this recognition and be part of our incredible district," said Mandrell, who has
been an educator for 22 years and superintendent of Polo CUSD #222 for six years. "This award ultimately belongs
to our team of passionate educators and a community that continually puts our students first. That's the Marco
way."
Those nominating Mandrell noted a number of successes during her tenure including:
• Implemented the "Whole Child" Mental Health Initiative to support student wellness.
• Expanded workforce readiness programs to better prepare students for career success.
• Enhanced early learning opportunities for young students in the district.
• Established the Sauk Valley Community College IMPACT Program - Marco Challenge partnership.
The Northwest Region is comprised of Jo Daviess, Stephenson, Carroll, Ogle, Whiteside and Lee counties.
Superintendents of Distinction were selected by peers in their region based on their commitment, dedication and
leadership.
"Exceptional leadership creates opportunities for students and strengthens communities," said IASA Executive
Director Dr. Brent Clark. "At Polo, Dr. Mandrell's forward-thinking approach and dedication have transformed the
district in meaningful and measurable ways."
The 12th annual luncheon was sponsored by Stifel, the country's leading underwriter of K-12 school bonds.
"The superintendents honored today exemplify the depth of leadership and personal commitment that
exceptional superintendents bring to their districts to serve students and staff to be the best they can be," said
Anne Noble, Managing Director of Stifel. "Stifel's longtime commitment to IASA culminates in honoring these
amazing superintendents and thanking them for all they do for the students of Illinois."
What is IASA? IASA is the state's premier advocacy and professional development organization for public school
superintendents and school administrators. Serving members in approximately 97 percent of Illinois school
districts, IASA's mission is to support school leaders in the pursuit of educational excellence through continued
school improvement.
The high school boys baseball game for today has been canceled
High school baseball and softball has been cancelled for today in Orangeville
Last Call Alert!!
Parents of 2026 seniors: highlight your senior in this year's yearbook with a Senior Spotlight! Info and examples attached. Email bcoy@poloschools.net with any questions.
The final deadline for payment is April 17th!
Due the field condition and more rain coming today’s Polo high school boys baseball games are canceled
