Kane County Board appoints new Regional Education Superintendent
Justin Sampson, Director of Communications and Marketing for the Kane County Regional Office of Education 6/11/2025 1:00AM
Following 32 years with the Kane County Regional Office of Education (ROE), Patricia Dal Santo has announced her plans to retire as Regional Superintendent. She will step down from her role on June 30, 2025.
After receiving her letter of resignation, the Kane County Board appointed John Jonak to serve the remainder of Ms. Dal Santo’s term as Regional Superintendent for Kane County.
Mr. Jonak brings an extensive list of qualities to the role of Regional Superintendent, including 26 years in education and nearly two decades in an administrative capacity. Prior to his time with Rosemont Elementary School District 78, where he currently serves as Superintendent, he held two roles within Westmont Community Unit School District 201. He was the Director of Student Services and Early Childhood Programs for the district for one year after his principalship at Westmont Junior High from 2012-2021.
He received his Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education from Eastern Illinois University in 1998, his Master in Administration and Leadership from Benedictine University in 2006, and earned his Superintendent Licensure from Northern Illinois University in 2021. He also carries 20 years of military experience, having served as a Platoon and Battalion Operations Sergeant in the United States Army.
"I am honored to be chosen to serve Kane County in this position,” Mr. Jonak said. “As a Batavia resident, an educator’s spouse, and the father of students in Batavia 101, I know first-hand the impact our schools have. My dedication lies in connecting with students, families, and educators that make our school communities so special. The ROE has a rich history of supporting these educational efforts, and being a leader of that work is a tremendous responsibility. I look forward to working alongside our dedicated team and our school district partners to ensure every teacher and student has the resources they need to be successful."
Mr. Jonak will assume his duties as Regional Superintendent on July 1, 2025.
