Superintendent of Schools Home
Superintendent of Schools
Dear District 76 Families,
Welcome to the 2026–2027 school year!
As we begin another year together in Diamond Lake School District 76, I want to take a moment to express how grateful I am to serve this incredible community. Each year brings new opportunities, fresh beginnings, and countless moments that will shape the experiences of our students—and we are excited to begin this journey with you.
At District 76, our mission remains at the center of all we do:
Embrace, Empower, Excel — Each Child, Each Day.
These are not simply words on a page. They are the foundation of our work and the promise we make to every child who walks through our doors. We are committed to creating schools where students feel welcomed, supported, challenged, and inspired to grow academically, socially, and emotionally.
As we look ahead to the 2026–2027 school year, our focus continues to center on building strong relationships, creating meaningful learning experiences, and ensuring every student has the support needed to thrive. Whether it is a student taking their first steps into kindergarten, finding confidence in a classroom, discovering a new passion, performing on stage, competing on the field, or preparing for graduation, we know the moments that happen inside our schools leave a lasting impact far beyond the classroom–and we are grateful to be a part of these moments.
District 76 is special because of the people who make up this community—our dedicated staff, supportive families, engaged Board of Education, and most importantly, our amazing students. Together, we continue to build a culture rooted in belonging, growth, kindness, and high expectations for all.
As you review this calendar and prepare for the year ahead, I encourage you to stay connected, involved, and engaged in the many opportunities throughout the school year. We value the partnership between home and school and know that when we work together, incredible things happen for children.
Thank you for your continued trust and support of District 76. We never take for granted you send your pride and joy through our school doors and we embrace the small and big moments together. We are looking forward to a wonderful year filled with learning, laughter, growth, and celebration.
Here’s to an outstanding 2026–2027 school year!
With gratitude,
Dr. Erin Knoll
Hiram Carrero
Department Summary
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The Superintendent guides the district’s vision, mission, strategic goals, and continuous improvement efforts. This includes long term planning, alignment of district priorities, and support for initiatives that strengthen student learning, staff effectiveness, and organizational success.
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In partnership with the Board of Education, the Superintendent supports effective governance, policy implementation, informed decision making, and district accountability. This collaboration helps keep district leadership focused on student achievement, fiscal responsibility, transparency, and community trust.
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The Office of the Superintendent provides leadership for instructional improvement, curriculum priorities, assessment practices, student supports, and academic programming. This work helps ensure that students have access to meaningful learning experiences that prepare them for future success.
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A strong professional culture depends on collaboration, accountability, trust, and continuous growth. The Superintendent works with district leaders to recruit, develop, support, and retain high quality staff who are committed to serving students and families.
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District programs, services, and resources are guided by a commitment to equitable access and opportunity for all students. This includes a continued focus on belonging, inclusion, student well being, and removing barriers that may affect learning and participation.
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As a key voice for the district, Dr. Knoll values clear, timely, and transparent communication with families, staff, students, the Board of Education, and the community. This includes building partnerships, listening to feedback, and strengthening confidence in the work of the district.
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The Superintendent provides oversight of district operations, including finance, facilities, technology, personnel, safety, transportation, food service, and other systems that support daily school functions. This work helps ensure that resources are managed responsibly and aligned with district priorities.
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The Office of the Superintendent advocates for the needs of students, staff, families, and public education. This includes staying informed on educational issues, supporting sound policy, engaging with local and regional partners, and representing the district in matters that affect schools and students.
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Thoughtful innovation and long range planning help prepare the district for future needs. The Superintendent monitors emerging trends in education, technology, workforce readiness, student support, and school system leadership to help guide responsible decision making.
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The Office of the Superintendent is committed to ethical leadership, accountability, and continuous improvement. Through data informed planning, collaboration, transparent communication, and responsible decision making, the office helps strengthen trust and advance the success of Diamond Lake School District 76.