District 99 Names Dr. Kate Morris as New Assistant Superintendent for Student Learning
At its meeting on January 26, 2026, the District 99 Board of Education approved Dr. Kate Morris as the district’s new assistant superintendent for student learning. Dr. Morris will begin on July 1, 2026. She will replace Gina Ziccardi, who is retiring after this school year.
“I’m excited for the opportunity to become part of the District 99 community and to serve in this role, bringing my learned experience in data analysis, resource management and systems leadership,” said Dr. Morris. “I’m deeply committed to District 99’s mission and look forward to supporting schools through strategic, data-informed decisions that help close achievement gaps and expand opportunities for all students.”
Dr. Morris currently serves as director of high school curriculum and instruction in Plainfield Consolidated School District 202, leading curriculum, instruction, assessment, professional development and principal supervision across four large high schools. She brings more than 20 years of administrative experience in high school settings, including district-level leadership of curriculum, career pathways, dual credit, Advanced Placement and honors programming, professional learning and school improvement planning. Before her current role, she served as associate principal for curriculum and instruction as well as division chair for humanities at Plainfield East High School. Prior to administration, Dr. Morris was an English teacher for over 10 years, teaching courses ranging from REI English to AP Language and Composition and Dual Credit English 101/102.
Dr. Morris holds a bachelor’s degree in English literature and secondary education from Illinois Wesleyan University, a master’s degree in education administration from Olivet Nazarene University, a master’s degree in English from Southern New Hampshire University and a doctorate in education from National Louis University. She’s the recipient of numerous awards, including the Alumni Legacy Award from High School District 230.
“Kate is an accomplished school leader whose background provides the perspective we need to guide our principals, instructional leaders and district teams to evolve our instruction,” said Dr. Hank Thiele, superintendent of District 99. “I am confident she will add immediate value to the district’s leadership team and will play a key role in shaping the future of student learning in District 99.”
The interview process was a collaborative one and included staff members across multiple departments. The interview team appreciated Dr. Morris’ experience leading district-wide curriculum and instructional systems, her supervision and evaluation of principals and her demonstrated capacity to design and implement large-scale academic initiatives.
Dr. Morris lives in Bolingbrook with her husband Chris and three sons.