Beginning in the 2027–2028 school year, Grayslake District 127 will welcome a familiar leader into a new role. Dr. Jeff Schagrin, currently Associate Principal for Curriculum and Instruction at Grayslake North High School, has been appointed the district’s next Assistant Superintendent for Teaching, Learning, and Innovation.
The appointment is part of the district’s thoughtful succession planning as two longtime Principals prepare to retire, ensuring strong leadership continuity while building on the District’s tradition of empowering students and supporting staff.
For Schagrin, the new role represents a continuation of a journey that began nearly two decades ago in D127 classrooms.
Schagrin joined the district in 2006 as a social studies teacher, teaching history and government. Over the years, he took on increasing leadership roles, serving as Student Life Activity Director, Social Studies Department Chair, and eventually Associate Principal.
Through each role, one constant has guided his work: helping students discover opportunities they may not yet see for themselves.
“I’ve always loved working with kids and the idea of learning,” Schagrin said. “Education is one of the few professions where you get to shape something. We try to help students find doors they didn’t know existed and build the skills and confidence to walk through them.”
His work in curriculum and instruction has helped shape learning experiences for students at Grayslake North, supporting innovative teaching practices and systems that ensure every student has the support they need to succeed.
Over nearly 20 years, Schagrin has watched the District grow while maintaining the strong relationships that define the Grayslake community.
“Grayslake is a magical place,” he said. “We have families, educators, businesses, and community partners all working together. The schools become a hub where those connections come to life.”
That partnership is visible in the District’s expanding career pathways and internship opportunities. In recent years, students have gained real-world experience across a variety of industries, reflecting D127’s commitment to relevant, engaging, authentic learning experiences.
For Schagrin, these connections between school and community help students see how classroom learning connects to future careers and passions.
As Assistant Superintendent for Teaching, Learning, and Innovation, Schagrin will help guide the District’s instructional vision while supporting staff collaboration and strategic planning.
Rather than focusing on a single initiative, he sees the role as an opportunity to bring together the people and ideas that will shape the District’s future.
“I’m excited to work with staff, students, and the community to figure out what the next chapter looks like,” he said. “There is so much potential within our schools and our community.”
Schagrin also believes students themselves will play an important role in that vision, helping inform how schools continue to evolve to meet the needs of future learners.
“This place is home for me,” he said. “It’s never really felt like work. I get to come to school every day and do something I truly love.”
Outside of school, Jeff and his wife, who is also an educator in a nearby district, are raising three children. Like many D127 families, their days are filled with school activities, practices, and the joyful chaos that comes with a busy household. That personal connection to family life and education helps ground his work and reinforces his belief that schools play a central role in supporting both students and the broader community.
As D127 prepares for this leadership transition, Schagrin’s appointment reflects the District’s commitment to building on its strong foundation while continuing to innovate for the future.