Thornton Fractional District 215 appoints Dr. Sophia Jones-Redmond as Superintendent

information provided by TFD215

LANSING, Ill. (May 28, 2020) – At their monthly board meeting on May 26, the Thornton Fractional High School District 215 Board of Education voted to hire Dr. Sophia Jones-Redmond as the new District 215 Superintendent.

Dr. Jones-Redmond brings 25 years of experience in public education and over 15 years of school administrative experience to her new duties at District 215. She has a doctoral degree in Educational Administration and Leadership from Northern Illinois University, a master’s degree in Special Education from Chicago State University, and a master’s degree as an Educational Specialist from Northern Illinois University. She also holds a master’s degree in Interpersonal Communication and bachelor’s degree in Communication from Honolulu University.

“I am delighted to have the opportunity to serve the students and families of District 215,” said Dr. Jones-Redmond. “I believe all students can and will learn when presented with high expectations, care, and adults who believe they are capable of achieving success. I’m excited to bring this educational philosophy to my position as superintendent in District 215.”

Dr. Jones-Redmond’s career prior to joining District 215 includes extensive experience in special education. She served as director of special education for Harvey School District 152, where she also served as the principal of Sandburg Elementary School. Dr. Jones-Redmond served as a special education coordinator for Chicago Public Schools, and also functioned in the role of assistant principal at Huth Middle School in Matteson and Hermansen Elementary School in Romeoville. Dr. Jones-Redmond served as Assistant Superintendent of Schools for the Illinois Department of Juvenile Justice District 428, and, most recently, held the position of Superintendent of District 428. While at District 428, Dr. Jones-Redmond implemented post-secondary and dual crediting college-level programming and forged partnerships with several colleges. She also helped develop a vibrant Career and Technical Education program in the district. Under her leadership, the district achieved one of the highest graduation rates in the state of Illinois.

District 215 board president Michael Bolz noted, “I am pleased to welcome Dr. Jones-Redmond to our district and excited about the vision and experience she brings to her new position as superintendent of our district.”

Dr. Jones-Redmond will begin her work with District 215 on July 1, replacing Dr. Teresa Lance, who recently accepted a position as Assistant Superintendent for Equity and Innovation in Illinois District U-46.

Thornton Fractional High School District 215 serves the students of Burnham, Calumet City, Lansing, and Lynwood at Thornton Fractional North High School, Thornton Fractional South High School, Thornton Fractional Center for Academics and Technology, and Thornton Fractional Center for Alternative Learning.