Marshall Principal Dr. Emilia Herrera, Singleton Principal James Kikos
The Joliet Public Schools District 86 Board of School Inspectors approved two new principals at their July 12, 2023 meeting. Dr. Emilia Herrera was named principal at A.O. Marshall Elementary School and James Kikos principal at Isaac Singleton Elementary School.
“I look forward to the upcoming school year and welcome these leaders to their new positions.” said Dr. Theresa Rouse, Superintendent of Joliet Public Schools District 86, “I know they will build strong relationships with our students, staff, and families to enhance teaching and learning.”
Dr. Herrera has over 22 years of educational experience, including serving as a Climate and Culture SEL Coach for the Illinois State Board of Education Intermediate Service Center, assistant director in Cook County School District 130, and an assistant principal in Chicago Public Schools. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Secondary Education with a concentration in Spanish and Social Sciences from DePaul University, a Master’s degree in Curriculum and Instruction from the University of Illinois Chicago, an Education Specialist degree in Education Administration, and a doctor of Philosophy in Curriculum and Instruction from Capella University.
Mr. Kikos has served the Joliet community within Joliet Public Schools District 86 since 2003. He taught math and coached various sports at Hufford Junior High and spent the last seven years at Gompers Junior High School, first as an academic advisor and, for the last three years, the assistant principal. Mr. Kikos received his Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education and Mathematics from Concordia University and a Master’s degree in Educational Leadership from the American College of Education.