The Board of Education of Park Ridge-Niles School District 64 at its June 25, 2018 meeting confirmed the appointment of Susan Waughon as Assistant Director of Student Services effective July 1, 2018.
Ms. Waughon comes to District 64 with nearly 20 years of experience in the field of special education. She most recently served as Pupil Services Administrator in Hinsdale CCSD 181 for the past seven years. Her wide-ranging responsibilities in the special education area included overseeing the staff evaluation process and mentoring staff, planning professional development, facilitating the planning of RtI supports and running IEP meetings, and working closely with parents. Earlier in her career, she served as a lead elementary school social worker and a student assistance coordinator in Geneva School District 304. She began her career in Aurora as a social worker.
“We believe Ms. Waughon’s rich experiences in special education perfectly align with the key areas of focus identified by Interim Student Services Director Mike Padavic during his recently concluded 100-day assignment that will be our priorities for the next several years," according to District 64 Superintendent Laurie Heinz.
“Ms. Waughon will be a great partner for new Director Dr. Lea Anne Frost as they work together to support our staff, students and families in improving all aspects of our special education program and services,” Dr. Heinz added.
A graduate of Judson University, Ms. Waughon holds master’s degrees in social work and in educational leadership from Aurora University. She is currently pursuing her doctorate in special education through Northcentral University in Scottsdale, AZ.
Ms. Waughon was selected from a pool of 41 applicants. Following a thorough phone screening process, finalists were interviewed in person by a committee comprised of District 64 central office and special education administrators. After further extensive background and reference checks, Dr. Heinz selected Ms. Waughon for the post.
