SXU Alumna Named Interim Superintendent of District 65
Saint Xavier University (SXU) alumna Angel Turner '07, Ed.D., has recently been appointed interim superintendent of Evanston/Skokie School District 65.
Turner, who believes she was born to be an educator, is thrilled to lead the district. With over 20 years of experience in education and a record of making marked improvements at low-performing schools, Turner's leadership is building a foundation for the district to improve student outcomes.
Turner's venture into education began when she was just five years old and would line up her stuffed animals and dogs, having full lessons with her "classroom." She began her undergraduate career at Illinois State University but finished her degree at Loyola University, where she earned a bachelor's in elementary education. She taught for a while and began thinking about what she wanted to do next. Although she initially wasn't interested in pursuing an administrative position, after conversation with her husband, she decided to attend graduate school at SXU, where she studied educational administration and earned a principal endorsement.
Turner served as a principal for Chicago Public Schools (CPS) for several years before she began directing student achievement and school leadership with the Academy for Urban School Leadership. During this time, Turner pursued a Doctor of Education in urban education leadership from UIC, which she earned in 2017. She moved on to senior director of curriculum and assessment at Accelerate Institute and began her work with Evanston/Skokie in 2021, where she first served as director of literacy and then assistant superintendent before becoming interim superintendent, a role the district's previous superintendent was confident she'd excel in.
In her role, Turner focuses on the "J-factor," or bringing joy to the work the district is doing so that they can be intentional in providing better outcomes for students.
"My work is exciting and rewarding, and I am proud of my dynamic team. We're working to deepen the path around bringing back humanization, building relationships, and getting to know folks at the core of who they are. Everyone brings unique differences and perspectives to the table and it shapes the work we do. Everyone who comes into the field of education comes in as servant leaders. We're working to provide the highest quality education that will allow students to be global citizens steeped in humanity," said Turner.
As interim superintendent, Turner runs every aspect of the district. She started the 2023 academic year on a bright note, visiting 18 schools in just a few days to welcome staff and students back and thank them for their hard work. As a leader, Turner knows how important it is to empower and celebrate people – when they feel valued, they remain motivated.
Turner credits her time at SXU for truly instilling in her the confidence she needed to serve in an administrative role.
"The instructors at Saint Xavier were amazing. They gave me a clear understanding of school administration and what to expect. I finished the program confident and ready to walk into school leadership. I was inspired and eager to leverage my degree. In fact, just recently, I dug up one of my old notebooks and found a lesson on school finance that I will use today! SXU gave me the confirmation that I have a gift of leadership to offer," said Turner.
While at SXU, Turner was a member of Kappa Delta Pi, the education honor society. Some of her favorite memories include spending time at Gilhooley's after class with her cohort, where she developed meaningful relationships.
In the future, Turner hopes to seek an appointment as a permanent superintendent. She looks forward to continuing to lend her skills as a leader and growing in the field of education.