Hinsdale-Clarendon Hills Elementary District 181 has hired a new principal at Madison School in Hinsdale to replace Barbara Shanahan, who is leaving to become director of Curriculum and Instruction at another district.
Katie Zulauf begins work as the elementary school’s new principal July 1. She was chosen from an initial pool of 58 candidates, officials said. Following an initial screening, the field was narrowed for more detailed review and interviews with district leadership.
“Ultimately, four candidates progressed to the final stage, which included a performance task and interviews with stakeholder groups representing staff, families and administration,” said Jeffrey Alstadt, District 181’s director of communications.
“Her extensive and varied experience, coupled with her strong educational background and her proven ability to cultivate positive and effective learning environments make her an exceptional leader for Madison School,” Superintendent Hector Garcia said.
Zulauf has spent the past three years as principal at Community Consolidated District 59’s Rupley Elementary School in Elk Grove Village.
During her tenure there, she spearheaded the development and implementation of a comprehensive schoolwide restorative behavior management system and provided extensive training to staff on restorative practices and culturally and linguistically responsive strategies, according to information from District 181. Zulauf also demonstrated a strong commitment to data-driven instruction, leading staff in analyzing student performance to implement targeted interventions and providing ongoing professional development to ensure the fidelity and effectiveness of these supports, according to District 181.
Zulauf said she has spent the past several years as a principal and teacher deeply committed to building strong, positive, and inclusive school cultures, where all students and staff thrive.
“When I learned about the opportunity at Madison, I was drawn to the school’s reputation for academic excellence, supportive community, and student-centered values, as evident throughout the search process,” Zulauf said. “It felt like a natural next step in my journey as a school leader. I am eager to contribute my skills and passion to this role.”
She said everything she has seen and heard about Madison reflects a school that values relationships and high expectations.
“I’m excited to become part of a team that is passionate about kids, works collaboratively, and fosters both achievement and belonging,” Zulauf said. “It’s the kind of school environment I deeply believe in and strive to create.”
She said while her previous roles have provided a strong foundation in fostering inclusive environments and implementing data-driven strategies, the evident commitment to collaboration and the high value placed on community engagement at Madison seem particularly notable and exciting to her.
“Based on what I’ve learned about Madison School and District 181 through the search process, particularly the emphasis on community input and the warm welcome I’ve already received, I anticipate a distinct and positive experience,” Zulauf said.
And she said she’s looking forward to working at a school, and school district, that always are among the top performing in the state.
“I wholeheartedly recognize Madison’s established reputation as a high-achieving school, a testament to the dedication of its exceptional staff and leadership,” Zulauf said. “My aim is to build upon this remarkable foundation, ensuring the continuation of Madison’s long-standing tradition of fostering student success and growth for years to come.
“I am so motivated and excited to contribute in a way that builds on what’s already working well. I truly can’t wait to meet the Madison students, staff, and parents.”
Chuck Fieldman is a freelance reporter for Pioneer Press.
