Superintendent Terry Holden honored as she departs after seven years

Board members, administrators and students honored Dr. Terry Holden at her final regular meeting Tuesday, thanking her for seven years of service as superintendent and recognizing her leadership through challenging periods, including the COVID era.

Multiple speakers recounted Holden’s emphasis on succession planning, recruitment, and balancing compassion with accountability. The board highlighted accomplishments across curriculum, security, staff expansion and capital planning that occurred during Holden’s tenure. A staff representative and members of the alumni association presented gifts and remarks.

Dr. Holden addressed the board and community, saying, “It is my honor to stand before you here at the close of seven incredible years in this school district,” and thanked students, families, staff and the administration. Holden noted moving to the village and the community’s welcome, praised the district team and expressed confidence in incoming leadership, specifically referencing Dr. Winston. The board hosted a brief student program that included remarks and drawings; refreshments were made available following the recognition.

The board recessed briefly after the celebration and resumed the business meeting. Holden’s departure will take effect at the end of the month; the board noted Dr. Winston will take over as superintendent and that the next regular meeting will be Dr. Winston’s first.