Indian Prairie 204 board approves Jessica Hurt as director of high‑school curriculum

The Indian Prairie Unit District 204 Board of Education voted April 6 to appoint Dr. Jessica Hurt as director of high‑school curriculum, effective July 1, 2026. The motion was made by Mark Rising, seconded by Susan Demming, and passed by roll call.

Dr. Jessica Hurt, introduced by Superintendent Adrian Talley as the district’s incoming director of core instruction for high school, told the board she was “so thrilled to be able to join this prestigious district and team to lead the work at all three high schools.” Hurt said she looks forward to supporting transitions from grade 8 to high school and credited family connections to the district in her decision to join Indian Prairie.

Hurt will replace Dr. Mike Purcell, who left the district earlier this year. Superintendent Adrian Talley recommended the appointment during his superintendent’s report and said Hurt is joining Indian Prairie from York Community High School, where she is currently principal and previously served in several instructional leadership roles.

Vote at a glance: the motion to appoint Jessica Hurt as director of high‑school curriculum was moved by Mark Rising and seconded by Susan Demming. Roll call recorded affirmative votes from Mark Rising, Susan Demming, Laurie Donahue, Allison Fosdick and Justin Karubas; the motion passed. The board applauded following the announcement.

The board moved on to the consent agenda after the appointment; staff told the board that Hurt will begin work July 1 and that she and district leaders will meet the board and staff during upcoming transition activities.