Published on March 17, 2026 6:34 am
Last Updated on March 17, 2026 10:25 am
The Effingham Unit #40 Board of Education has announced that Kelsey Baker has been named the next Superintendent of Schools. This appointment is part of a strategic leadership succession plan following the announced retirement of current Superintendent Andrew D. Johnson, effective June 30, 2028. Mrs. Baker will transition into the role of Deputy Superintendent on July 1, 2026 before officially assuming the full duties of Superintendent on July 1, 2028.
Mrs. Baker’s deep connection to the district began as a student in the Effingham Unit #40 system from Kindergarten through her graduation from Effingham High School. She is a multi-degree
alumna of Eastern Illinois University, where she earned a Bachelor of Science in Special Education in December 2006 and a Master of Science in Special Education in May 2009. Her advanced
administrative qualifications include a Master of Science in Educational Leadership and a Director of Special Education license, both earned in December 2009, followed most recently by a Specialist in Educational Leadership degree in December 2024. Throughout her nearly 20-year career, she has served the region in numerous capacities:
● Special Education Teacher: Central Grade School (3 years) and Effingham Junior High School (8 years).
● Principal: Fresh Start Treatment and Learning Center for the Eastern Illinois Area Special Education (EIASE) Cooperative (2 years).
● Assistant Principal: Effingham Junior High School (3 years).
● District Leadership: Assistant Superintendent for Effingham Unit #40 (3 years), where she recently received the Award of Meritorious Service from the Illinois State Board of Education.
Kelsey is a lifelong member of this community and a highly credentialed administrator, she possesses a clear vision for the future of Unit #40 schools.
“I am incredibly honored to be selected to lead the district that has given me so much,” said Mrs. Baker. “I look forward to working with Mr. Johnson, our staff, and our community to provide the best possible education for every student.”
