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Dr. Travis L. McGuire Selected as Superintendent of Schools for Cass School District 63
The Cass School District 63 Board of Education is pleased to announce that on Tuesday, December 16, 2025, the Board selected Dr. Travis L. McGuire as the next Superintendent of Schools, effective July 1, 2026.
Dr. McGuire will succeed Mr. Mark R. Cross, who is retiring at the conclusion of the 2025–2026 school year after six years of dedicated service as Superintendent of Schools.
The Board of Education conducted a comprehensive and inclusive search process, engaging school families, staff, students, community leaders, and members of the broader community. Feedback gathered through this process informed the development of a leadership profile that guided the evaluation of nearly 70 applicants for the Superintendent position.
“The Board of Education is deeply grateful to the many individuals who contributed their time and perspectives throughout this important process,” said Lana Johnson, President of the Board of Education. “We are thrilled to welcome Dr. McGuire to Cass School District 63. He brings significant experience, a strong instructional background, and a collaborative leadership style that will serve our District well.”
Dr. McGuire brings 27 years of experience as a highly effective educator and school leader. He served for ten years as Superintendent of Schools for Hinckley-Big Rock Community Unit School District #429 and most recently has spent three years as Assistant Superintendent in Downers Grove Community High School District #99.
Dr. McGuire earned his Bachelor’s degree from Illinois State University and both his Master’s degree and Doctorate in Education from Western Illinois University. In addition to his leadership roles in K–12 education, he currently serves as an Adjunct Instructor at Aurora University, where he teaches school finance.
“I am honored and humbled by the Board of Education’s confidence in me as the next Superintendent of Cass School District 63.” said Dr. McGuire. “I am grateful for the strong foundation and positive culture established under the leadership of Mark Cross, and I am excited to learn from the people who bring that culture to life each day. As I transition into this role, my priority will be to listen, learn, and understand the voices of students, staff, families, and the community, and then lead in a way that thoughtfully builds on that foundation. I look forward to leading with purpose and care as I officially begin serving the Cass School District 63 community on July 1, 2026.”
