Superintendent, Township School District 214, Chicago, Illinois
Nominee: Richard P. DuFour
Dr. David Schuler is currently in his seventh year as a superintendent of schools. He began his career as a social studies teacher, athletic coach, activity advisor, and a director of athletics and activities prior to becoming a high school principal and then superintendent.
He is currently superintendent in Township High School District 214 in the northwest suburbs of Chicago. Since Dr. Schuler’s arrival in District 214, the academic achievement levels of students with disabilities have increased 73.1%, students of poverty by 95.7%, students with Limited English Proficiency by 575.2%, and the district has seen an increase of 54.8% in the number of students taking Advanced Placement exams in the last five years. In addition to serving as superintendent, Dr. Schuler is an adjunct associate professor at the University of Illinois – Chicago in the College of Education and Policy Studies doctoral program.
Dr. Schuler earned his bachelor’s degree from Carroll College near Milwaukee, Wisconsin and his master’s and doctorate degrees from the University of Wisconsin – Madison. His doctoral research focused on leadership theory and building credible relationships between superintendents and their administrative team members, and he is currently working on a book based on his research.