Lauren Bonner has been named the new Assistant Superintendent for Operations and Student Experiences by the D225 School Board

Bonner received this role on Nov. 10 and will begin to work on July 1, 2026, remaining in her current position as Associate Principal of Operations and Student Experiences at North until the transition, Bonner said. The role was given to her due to a change in roles above Assistant Superintendent, Bonner said. In her new role, she will oversee the district business office, the security and safety manager, the technology manager, as well as student activities and athletics, Bonner added.

“I’m really excited about this opportunity and what is going to take place in the district over the next few years,” Bonner said.

The process to hire the new assistant superintendent began in mid-October. The hiring process included a 30 minute interview by one set of stakeholders, and then another 30 minute interview immediately after with new interviewers, Bonner said. During her 3rd and final round of interviews, which took place in November, she answered questions directly from Superintendent Dr. RJ Gravel, Bonner said.

Gravel and Bonner both started their careers as music teachers, providing a commonality, Bonner said. This music background is beneficial because it has helped to build confidence and organizational skills, Bonner said.

“The skills you acquire by being a musician are lifelong skills,” Bonner said.

After working as a choir teacher in Chicago Public Schools, Bonner went on to direct choir at Loyola Academy, where she also served as a Dean and the Assistant Principal for Student Services, Bonner said.

While at North, Bonner has worked closely with the Village of Northbrook, connections she can build on and expand upon in her new role, Gravel said.

Gravel is confident that Bonner will excel in this role due to her people-first, social nature, Gravel said.

“One of the best things about Bonner is that she’s based on relationships,” Gravel said. “She enjoys spending time with staff, parents, and students.”