The Springfield Public Schools District 186 Board of Education is recommending Dr. Terrance Jordan as the District’s next superintendent. The Board is expected to vote on Dr. Jordan’s appointment at an upcoming Board meeting. If approved, Dr. Jordan will succeed Superintendent Jennifer Gill, who will retire from the District on June 30, 2026.
Dr. Terrance Jordan is a career educator and a familiar, trusted presence within Springfield Public Schools District 186. He began his service to District 186 as a kindergarten teaching assistant in 2003. He then served as a library technology specialist and parent educator. These positions helped shape his career path and were a stepping stone into his continuing education. He became a beloved teacher at Dubois, Feitshans and Enos elementary schools while also earning his administrative license. Dr. Jordan went on to serve as a guidance dean at Washington Middle School and in 2014 was named principal of Black Hawk Elementary.
Dr. Jordan joined District Administration in 2021 and currently serves as the Assistant Superintendent of Family, Community, and School Leadership. In this role, he has worked tirelessly alongside our schools and community leaders to strengthen relationships with families, improve school experiences and expand programs and opportunities for students across the District.
Board representative Buffy Lael-Wolf said Dr. Jordan stood out from a broad slate that included both internal and external candidates. “We are confident that the best candidate rose to the top after a competitive search that included surveys, interviews and focus groups involving staff, families, students and community members.” She noted that Dr. Jordan consistently demonstrated the priorities identified by the Board, including community connection, strategic leadership, and a focus on student achievement.
“Dr. Jordan brings both vision and heart to this role,” Lael-Wolf added.“ He understands our district because he has lived our work. He knows our students, our families and our schools, and he has earned trust through years of service. We are confident he will lead District 186 with integrity, purpose and unwavering commitment to student success.”
Pending Board approval, Dr. Jordan will begin his role as superintendent on July 1, 2026.