Meridian’s Caposey named ‘Superintendent of Distinction’

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SPRINGFIELD – P.J. Caposey, superintendent of Meridian Community Unit School District #223, has been named the 2018 Superintendent of Distinction by his colleagues in the Northwest Region of the Illinois Association of School Administrators (IASA).

Caposey was honored at an awards luncheon May 1 in Springfield. Caposey was selected by peers in the region, which encompasses six counties in northwestern Illinois. State Superintendent Dr. Tony Smith was the featured speaker at the luncheon where 21 IASA regional Superintendents of Distinction were honored.

“I am filled with gratitude and extremely honored by this recognition,” said Caposey, who has been an educator for 14 years, the last four as superintendent at Meridian CUSD #223. “I may be named as the recipient of this honor, but it is truly the work of everyone in Meridian 223 that is being recognized. I cannot express how thankful I am for all they do for our kids. Additionally, any time peers recognize the work you are doing, it makes the recognition that much more special.”

Those nominating Caposey made special notation of his many accomplishments in the school district during his tenure including:

* Shepherded the district through a successful referendum that increased funding and built a stable financial future for the district.

* Oversaw, $10 million worth of building repairs paid for without increasing the tax rate or decreasing fund balances.

* Focusing on building the district through sustainable systems and processes for improvement. Using the Balridge Criteria for Performance Excellence as the framework for improvement. Moving the Meridian school district forward in a systematic manner focusing on academic performance, financial stability, district culture and effective systems.

* Named a top high school by US News and World Report.

“These unique individuals in the field of Illinois public education are providing exceptional leadership and are industrious in developing creative contributions that elevate the success of students in their districts and support solutions to growing demands. These ‘Superintendents of Distinction’ were selected by their peers in their regions because of the dedication, commitment and leadership they have demonstrated,” said IASA Executive Director Dr. Brent Clark. 

The fourth annual luncheon again was sponsored by Horace Mann, one of the nation’s largest insurers focusing on the needs of educators.

“Superintendents work tirelessly to keep our schools safe while providing resources and support to our educators teaching our future leaders,” said Marita Zuraitis, Horace Mann President and Chief Executive Officer. “As a company founded by educators for educators, I applaud the IASA ‘Superintendents of Distinction’ for continually looking for ways to create the best learning environment for educators and their students.”

Caposey received his Bachelor’s Degree from Eastern Illinois University, his Master’s in Leadership from National Lewis University and his Education Specialist from Western Illinois University.

He and his wife Jacqueline have four children, Jameson, Jackson, Caroline and Anthony.