New Principal Hired at WJHS
Posted on 03/18/2020
Kate DominiqueWilmette Junior High School will have a new educational leader.

The Wilmette Board of Education unanimously approved the hiring of Ms. Kate Dominique as Principal of Wilmette Junior High School during their regular board meeting on Monday, March 16.

“We are thrilled to have Ms. Dominique join our team,” Superintendent Dr. Kari Cremascoli said. “Ms. Dominique brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to this important position within our district, as well as a passion for supporting students and staff to accomplish excellence in education. Interview teams were especially impressed by Ms. Dominique’s success as an instructional leader and collaborative partner who builds relationships and supports positive school culture, and by her depth of knowledge related to teaching, learning, curriculum and instructional practices. We are delighted to have her joining our team and we are confident that Ms. Dominique will be a great asset to Wilmette Junior High School and our District 39 family.”

Ms. Dominique brings more than 15 years of educational experience to the principal position, having spent the past three years as principal of Challenger Middle School (6-8) in San Diego, CA. At Challenger Middle School, Ms. Dominique utilized data to close the achievement gap for all learners while supporting inclusive education and growth for all students. Ms. Dominique is described by her colleagues as an educator who is committed to excellence for all, and as a leader who values building relationships with students, staff and parents. She is heralded for her collaborative, forward-thinking and inspiring approach to education.

“I am humbled and excited by the opportunity to become principal at Wilmette Junior High School,” Ms. Dominique said. “I look forward to working with students, teachers, parents and administrators to ensure each student is fully supported academically, socially and emotionally throughout their junior high years.”

In January, District 39 revised its administrative structure to allow for full-time principals and assistant principals at each building. Mrs. Kelly Jackson, who formally served as principal of Highcrest Middle School and Wilmette Junior High School, will serve as principal of Highcrest, which created an opening at Wilmette Junior High School.

Ms. Dominique earned her bachelor’s degree in education from Bowling Green State University. She earned her master’s degree in counseling from the University of San Diego and earned her post-graduate degree in School Building and School District Leadership from Hunter College in New York City.