District 112 Appoints New Indian Trail Principal, Student Services Coordinator

HIGHLAND PARK, IL — The North Shore School District 112 Board of Education approved two new administrative appointments on Tuesday.

Sydnee McDermott was named the new principal at Indian Trail Elementary School, and Allyssa Pease was appointed as a new student services coordinator. Both administrators will begin their new roles on July 1, 2026.

Ms. McDermott currently serves as associate principal at Indian Trail. She previously worked within District 112 as a student services instructional coach and as a special education resource teacher. She holds a master’s degree in educational administration from Southern Illinois University Edwardsville and a master’s degree in urban education, policy and administration from Loyola Marymount University.

Her educational background also includes a bachelor’s degree in business from Miami University, with majors in marketing, management, and leadership, and a minor in Spanish. She possesses an Illinois Professional Educator License with endorsements for principal, director of special education, English as a second language, and Learning Behavior Specialist I.

“Sydnee has earned the trust of the Indian Trail community through her steady, student-centered leadership and the strong relationships she builds with staff, students, and families,” said Deputy Superintendent Monica Schroeder. “We are proud to elevate a leader who has already served District 112 in meaningful roles, and her experience here will help her step into this position with a strong understanding of Indian Trail and how we support students.”

Ms. Pease is currently the assistant principal of student services in Harrison School District 36. Her prior experience includes serving as an MTSS coordinator and teaching in classrooms across elementary and middle school grade levels.

Ms. Pease earned a degree in early childhood education from Kendall College and completed an education leadership program through American College of Education. She is also working to obtain a director of special education endorsement.

“We are thrilled to welcome Allyssa to our student services team,” Assistant Superintendent for Student Services Holly Colin said. “She is a thoughtful, steady leader who brings a practical perspective and a clear focus on what students need day to day. We look forward to her partnership with our staff and families.”