The Evanston School District 65 Board of Education approved the appointment of Romy DeCristofaro as the Executive Director for Special Services earlier this week.
DeCristofaro, who will succeed Joyce Bartz, assistant superintendent, in leading special services and special education, will begin in July and report directly to Superintendent Paul Goren.
DeCristofaro is currently serving as the administrator for student services in Wilmette District 39. She held positions as a learning behavior specialist in District 39 as well as a learning facilitator in Sycamore District 427.
She holds a doctorate in curriculum studies from the University of Illinois-Chicago and Masters degrees in both educational leadership and special education advanced practices from Northern Illinois University.
“I am honored and humbled by the opportunity to join the District 65 team. The district and community’s commitment to creating an equitable learning environment for all students is really important to me and I look forward to partnering with everyone to ensure we are meeting the unique and diverse learning needs of all students,” said DeCristofaro.
“Upon her retirement in June, Bartz will have dedicated more than 30 years of service to the students and families of District 65,” said Goren. “She has tirelessly and passionately advocated for students who receive special education services, brought restorative justice programs to the district, and focused a great deal of time to promoting a safe and supportive climate for both students and staff. She will be greatly missed by her District 65 colleagues.”