Hightower to lead DPW in 26-27 as Jackson moves to new role

URBANA — Dr. Preston L. Williams Jr. Elementary’s current assistant principal will lead the school on an interim basis in 2026-27 as its principal moves to a different leadership role within the school district.

Starting July 1, DPW Principal Danielle Jackson will become the administrator of USD 116’s new community school program, district officials announced Wednesday. Assistant Principal Derrius Hightower will serve as interim principal for the upcoming school year.

The news comes as the school district accepts a $336,000 federal grant for the creation of a “community school” at DPW Elementary.

“This grant represents an important investment in our students and families,” said Superintendent Jennifer Ivory-Tatum. “Community schools are built on a foundation of collaboration, connection, and support; this funding will allow the District to create an environment where the youth in our community thrive, but also provide more opportunities for the entire East Urbana community to thrive.”

Officials said the funds will help expand programs and services aimed at supporting students, families and the larger community “by strengthening partnerships, increasing access to resources, and creating more opportunities for student and family success.”

This could include initiatives such as additional learning opportunities, after-school programming, adult education and job training, and “health, wellness and social services” for students and community members.

“Community schools bring together educators, families, community organizations, and local partners to provide integrated support systems that help students thrive academically, socially, and emotionally,” district officials said. “By building stronger connections between schools and communities, community school models strengthen opportunities for student success while supporting the well-being of families.”

The federal funding was secured by U.S. Senators Tammy Duckworth and Dick Durbin through a congressionally-directed spending request.

Duckworth’s office shared in a previous announcement that the senators hope that the community school initiative will help “decrease community violence.”

“This will be the first Community School program model in Urbana Schools,” said Director of Communications and Marketing Katherine Tellez. “Part of Jackson’s role will be to develop and begin implementing the program at Dr. Williams, and then continue to grow it.”