June 23, 2026 – Regional Office of Education #39 has announced the appointment of Heather Ethell as Assistant Regional Superintendent. She will officially begin her new role on July 1, 2026.
Regional Superintendent of Schools Jill Reedy said the appointment strengthens leadership capacity across the Macon-Piatt region as the office continues to expand services for schools and students.
Ethell brings 25 years of experience in education to the position. Her background includes one year as a special education paraprofessional, 11 years as a middle school teacher, four years as a K-12 instructional coach, and nine years in PreK–8 building-level administration.
In her new role, Ethell will support school districts across Macon and Piatt Counties by providing leadership, collaboration, and coordinated services aimed at improving outcomes for both students and educators.
“I am excited to expand my impact beyond a single school district by supporting schools across the region, building partnerships with educational leaders, and contributing to initiatives that improve outcomes for students and educators,” Ethell said.
Reedy praised Ethell’s experience and leadership approach.
“Heather has dedicated her career to supporting student success and helping educators grow,” Reedy said. “Her leadership experience, collaborative approach, and passion for education will be tremendous assets to the Regional Office and the schools we serve.”
The appointment comes during a period of growth for ROE #39, which has expanded services in recent years, including relocation to a new facility, expansion of alternative education programs, the launch of the IMPACT Student Liaison Program, strengthened truancy support services, addition of a Regional Director of School Safety, and establishment of both a Regional Crisis Response and Reunification Team and a Regional FLIGHT Team.
“As our programs, partnerships, and responsibilities have continued to grow, so has the need for additional leadership capacity,” Reedy said. “Heather’s appointment reflects our commitment to providing strong support to school districts while continuing to expand services that positively impact students across the region.”
The role also restores a full-time Assistant Regional Superintendent position. Since 2022, Reedy has been supported by retired education leaders Dr. Nancy Brodbeck and Dr. Zakry Standerfer, who have served in part-time assistant roles.
“I am deeply grateful for the leadership, guidance, and expertise that Nancy and Zak have provided during a period of tremendous growth for our office,” Reedy said. “Their contributions have helped position ROE #39 for continued success.”
Brodbeck and Standerfer will continue serving the Regional Office in part-time capacities focused on their areas of expertise.
Regional Office of Education #39 provides educational leadership, licensure support, professional development, compliance oversight, alternative education programming, school safety services, and other district supports across Macon and Piatt Counties.
