District 47 Announces New Student Services Leadership to Enhance Student Support

To strengthen support for students and staff, District 47 is making a slight adjustment to its leadership structure. This restructuring includes realigning Student Services as its own department, responsible for specialized programs, social-emotional learning, health services, and comprehensive related services, working in close partnership with the Curriculum, Instruction, and Assessment department to ensure coordinated support for students.

“This change doesn’t require additional funding, but it helps the district stay aligned with our strategic plan and remain focused on supporting each student’s growth and learning,” said District 47 Superintendent Dr. Kathy Hinz.

The district is proud to introduce the leaders who will guide the department in this new structure. Dr. Ryan Olson will serve as Assistant Superintendent of Student Services, and Stacy O’Dea will serve as Director of Student Services. Both were board approved on February 17, 2026 and will begin their new roles on July 1, 2026.

Dr. Olson has dedicated the past 24 years to education and supporting students. He began his career in District 47 as a school psychologist and assistant principal, went on to serve in roles in other districts, including director of student services, principal, superintendent, and adjunct professor, and has been a District 47 assistant director of special education for the past three years. He also currently serves as a board member for Community High School District 155.

During his career, Dr. Olson has prioritized strong relationships, clear communication, and positive student outcomes. He is deeply committed to fostering growth in students, staff, and families by supporting those who work directly with students and helping students succeed.

“I am excited for this opportunity to help lead the Student Services department for years to come,” said Olson. “I am grateful for the relationships I’ve already developed with students, families, and staff, and I hope that the work we do will have a lasting impact long after the students leave the district.”

Stacy O’Dea brings 27 years of experience in special education, building a career centered on advocating for students and supporting families. She currently serves as assistant director of special education in District 47 and previously was director of special education in Wauconda District 118 for eight years. Earlier in her career, she spent 15 years in special services leadership roles and 10 years as an LBS teacher in Huntley Community School District 158. She also teaches undergraduate and graduate courses in special education at Aurora University to prepare the next generation of educators and school administrators.

“I am deeply honored and excited to step into the Director of Special Services role,” said O’Dea. “This work matters because when we intentionally support our students and families, we strengthen outcomes for our entire school community!”

“Ryan Olson and Stacy O’Dea both step into these roles with well-established relationships with our staff, students, and families, and have proven themselves to be leaders that listen and act in the best interest of students,” said Dr. Kathy Hinz. “We are thrilled to continue working alongside them as they strengthen support for students and staff across the district.”

Dr. Gail Lantvit will continue to serve as the Interim Director of Special Education for the remainder of this school year. Dr. Lantvit has over 30 years of experience in the field of special education, serving in the roles of special education teacher, principal, assistant superintendent of curriculum for SEDOL, and an educational consultant throughout her career.