ARCOLA, IL – The Arcola Community Unit School District #306 Board of Education is pleased to announce the appointment of Tara Chandler as the district's next Superintendent of Schools, effective July 1, 2026. Mrs. Chandler will succeed Dr. Tom Mulligan, who is retiring after 12 years of distinguished service leading the district.
Tara Chandler joins Arcola as an experienced and student-centered superintendent with nearly three decades of service in public education. She brings a proven record of leadership across multiple roles, including teacher, principal, curriculum director, and assistant superintendent. Since 2022, she has served Paxton-Buckley-Loda CUSD 10 as Assistant Superintendent.
Prior to that role, Mrs. Chandler spent 14 years as the district's Director of Curriculum, Instruction, and Assessment, where she led major instructional initiatives, managed grants, and expanded professional development. Earlier roles include principal of Eastlawn Grade School, assistant principal at Paxton-Buckley-Loda Junior High School, and six years as a third-grade teacher at Potomac Grade School, where she also coached varsity girls' basketball and junior high track and field.
School Board President, Lucas Shonkwiler stated that “The Board of Education is thrilled to welcome Mrs. Chandler to Arcola. Her extensive background in curriculum leadership, building administration, and district-level management make her the ideal leader to build upon the strong foundation Dr. Mulligan has established. Her commitment to collaboration and student-centered decision-making aligns perfectly with our district's values."
When asked about her new position, Mrs. Chandler stated:
"I am deeply honored to serve as the next Superintendent and become part of the Arcola school community. Throughout my career—as a teacher, coach, principal, curriculum director, assistant superintendent, and now superintendent—I have believed that strong schools are built through shared leadership, transparency, and a genuine respect for every voice in the district.
"My leadership philosophy centers on collaboration and open communication. I believe in creating environments where educators feel supported, students feel inspired, and families feel welcome as partners.
"I'm excited to meet staff, students, families and community members. It is clear that the spirit of Arcola is built on rich traditions and strong Purple Rider community pride.
"I am thrilled for the opportunity to lead, to listen, and to serve. I look forward to partnering with all of you to continue building a district focused on Excellence—An Arcola Tradition!"
Mrs. Chandler resides with her husband, Jim, her two stepdaughters, Carly and Cassidy, and their two French Bulldogs, Winnie and Gus. She enjoys spending time outdoors hiking, boating, and golfing with her family.
The district extends its deepest gratitude to Dr. Tom Mulligan for his 12 years of dedicated leadership and wishes him well in his retirement.