Jasper County School District Board of Education conducted a search for a new superintendent to start in July of the 2022 – 2023 school year. The Board hired the Illinois Association of School Boards (IASB) to assist in this process. Joe Sornberger has been named the next Superintendent of Jasper County Community Unit School District #1. He grew up in Robinson, Illinois, and has served in the role of Superintendent for the past ten years. Mr. Sornberger held that position at Palestine Community Unit School District #3 from 2012 to 2014 and has been in that role at ROWVA Community Unit School District #208 from 2014-present. He will be residing in Jasper County with his wife Amy and two children, Jackson and Olivia. Mr. Sornberger decided to apply for the Superintendent opening at Jasper County School District because of the tight-knit community, noteworthy school learning environment, and the dedication of faculty, staff, and administration to work with all kids on their social and emotional well being.
Mr. Sornberger earned Bachelor of Science degrees in History and Education as well as a M.Ed. in School Administration and Supervision from Indiana State University. Additionally, he earned an Ed.S. degree in Educational Administration from Eastern Illinois University. Mr. Sornberger is an enthusiastic leader who prides himself on building relationships with students, staff, and community stakeholders, has a strong background in school finance, and is passionate in developing innovative ways to benefit student learning.
One of Mr. Sornberger’s long-term goals would be to enhance learning opportunities for all students by the time they graduate, whether that is for those who are college bound or who are heading into the workforce through career and technical education. In an ever-changing world with an increased complexity of educational pedagogy, some of the biggest challenges he sees are continuing to fnd quality educators during a teacher shortage, meeting the growing social-emotional needs of our students, and overcoming learning loss due to COVID-19.
“It’s an honor to have been given this opportunity to lead the students and staff of Jasper County Schools. I believe educational innovation and the empowerment of students will drive the future. I’m excited to take Jasper County School District #1 to the next level!”
Mandy Rieman, Jasper Unit 1 Board of Education President, commented on the hiring of Mr. Sornberger statung, “We are very excited to welcome Mr. Sornberger here to JCCU#1. He brings numerous exceptional qualities with him that he will be able to apply throughout our district. We believe he will lead us for many years to come. Also, we would like to thank Andy Johnson for his time, dedication, and service to our community and schools throughout his time here. We wish him the best of luck in his new adventure. Our loss is definitely their gain.”
