Andrew Jordan’s story begins on the grassy fields of Stockton, Illinois. Back in high school, he led his football team as quarterback to the state championship game in 2004. Today, he guides Donovan Community Unit School District #3 (Donovan CUSD #3) as its superintendent, using the same determination and teamwork that fueled his early athletic success.
“Being a quarterback taught me about responsibility and teamwork,” Jordan reflects. “Leading a school district involves similar lessons, building trust, collaborating, and motivating others.”
A Path Shaped by Education
After graduating from Stockton High School in 2005, Jordan began his educational journey at Highland Community College. By 2007, he had earned his Associate of Science degree. He then attended Northern Illinois University, completing a Bachelor’s in Kinesiology and Physical Education in 2010. Early on, he decided teaching would be his calling.
Jordan didn’t stop there. Driven by a desire to lead, he returned to school, earning a Master’s in Educational Administration from Western Illinois University in 2014. In 2019, he added an Educational Specialist degree with a Superintendent Endorsement. By 2020, he also achieved certification as a Chief School Business Official (C.S.B.O.) from the University of Illinois at Springfield.
Currently, he is pursuing a Doctor of Education degree at Western Illinois University, aiming to deepen his expertise further.
“I’ve always believed education opens doors,” says Jordan. “I wanted to keep growing, not just for myself, but to benefit my students and my community.”
Starting from the Classroom
Jordan began his career at West Prairie High School in Sciota, Illinois, teaching Physical Education and Driver’s Ed from 2010 to 2016. As a coach, he transformed the boys’ basketball program. A team struggling to win just a few games as eighth graders rose into a Top-15 ranked IHSA Class 1A team under his guidance.
“Watching kids grow from losing games to believing in themselves, that’s what inspired me to pursue leadership,” Jordan says.
In 2014, he became West Prairie’s assistant principal, introducing innovative programs like Evaluwise to streamline teaching assessments and school safety plans.
In 2016, he moved to West Carroll Primary School in Savanna, Illinois, becoming principal of 450 students. His leadership significantly improved school test scores, achieving a commendable school rating from the state.
Transforming Donovan Schools
Jordan joined Donovan CUSD #3 in January 2019 as principal of Donovan Jr./Sr. High School. His tenure brought rapid and impactful changes.
He introduced Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) called “The Bobcat Way,” significantly improving student behavior through regular recognition events. He also started “Genius Hour,” giving students monthly opportunities to choose activities and teachers based on their interests.
“Kids thrive when they feel ownership over their learning,” explains Jordan. “Giving students choice transformed the culture here.”
Under his leadership, the district secured major grants, including a $500,000 tutoring program and a $210,693 grant to hire social-emotional specialists. He oversaw a $70,000 library renovation, transforming it into a modern media center.
His efforts led him to receive the prestigious Illinois Principal Association Cornbelt Region Principal of the Year award in 2022.
“It wasn’t about recognition,” Jordan humbly states. “It was validation that we were truly improving education for kids.”
Becoming Superintendent
In July 2023, Jordan stepped into his current role as superintendent of Donovan CUSD #3. Immediately, he tackled critical projects. He secured $875,000 through bonds to renovate school restrooms and invested in energy-efficient LED lighting with a $25,000 grant from Ameren.
Jordan also successfully navigated complex financial strategies, significantly boosting the district’s investment income.
“Managing resources wisely is essential,” says Jordan. “Every dollar saved is another dollar we can invest directly into student success.”
Giving Back Beyond School Walls
Community remains at Jordan’s heart. From 2005 to 2017, he organized the Stockton 3-on-3 basketball tournament, raising over $50,000 for youth sports programs. He coaches youth baseball, soccer, and basketball, believing sports are vital for character-building.
As president of the Watseka Masonic Lodge and a committee member for the Illinois Masonic Student Assistance Program, Jordan contributes to delivering $120,000 worth of professional development annually to Illinois educators.
“Giving back matters deeply to me,” Jordan emphasizes. “Education and community go hand-in-hand.”
Life Beyond Work
Jordan balances his professional responsibilities with family time in Martinton, Illinois, alongside his wife Sarah, son, and twin daughters. He enjoys golfing, basketball, and running.
A former entrepreneur, Jordan co-owned J3 Timing, an event-timing business that managed over 300 races annually. The company was later sold, but he still sees entrepreneurship as valuable life training.
“Running a business taught me how to listen, adapt, and innovate,” Jordan notes. “Those skills translate directly into school leadership.”
Looking Forward
Andrew Jordan’s journey from high school quarterback to superintendent reflects a life dedicated to education, leadership, and community involvement. As he continues his doctoral studies, he remains committed to innovating and improving schools, not just academically, but also culturally and emotionally.
“My goal isn’t just to lead schools. It’s to build communities that thrive because of strong, compassionate, and effective education.”
Andrew Jordan’s story inspires students and educators alike. His steady, thoughtful leadership continues to shape a brighter future in Donovan and beyond.
Interview with Andrew Jordan
You started your career as a high school teacher and coach. How did that shape your leadership style?
Being a teacher and coach taught me to meet students where they are. Coaching especially helped me learn how to motivate people, build trust, and deal with pressure. Those skills carried into administration. I approach leadership the same way, clear goals, honest feedback, and a team-first mindset.
What’s one initiative at Donovan you’re especially proud of?
Genius Hour has been a game-changer. Giving students a chance to explore topics and choose their own learning path once a month really boosted engagement. It gave our staff a chance to connect with students in new ways too. It helped shift our whole school culture.
You’ve won multiple grants and managed big changes in district operations. What’s your approach to making decisions?
I always start with listening. Whether it’s a staff member, student, or parent, people want to be heard. Then I look at the data and the long-term impact. Every decision has to reflect what’s best for students, both now and years down the road.
You’ve gone back to school multiple times while working full-time. What drives you to keep learning?
I don’t think leaders can afford to stop growing. The more I learn, the more I can help others. My goal is to bring that knowledge back to the district to improve systems, instruction, and student outcomes.
You’ve been involved in community programs for years. Why is that important to you?
Schools don’t work in a vacuum. They’re part of the community. Coaching youth sports, organizing tournaments, helping with Masonic programs, those connections matter. They build trust and show students that learning happens everywhere.
What advice would you give to someone just starting out in education?
Be patient, be present, and don’t be afraid to ask questions. Every great educator started by listening and learning from others. Focus on relationships. The rest will come with time and effort.
