The Principal Who Listens: A Look at Andrew Jordan’s Journey in Education

Andrew Jordan is not your average school leader. He’s a superintendent, former principal, and long-time educator in Illinois. But more than that, he’s a small-town guy who believes in doing the work—and doing it well.

Born and raised in Stockton, Illinois, Andrew grew up surrounded by tight-knit community values. He was the quarterback at Stockton High School and played in the state championship game in 2004. Sports were a big part of his life, but education was always in the background.

“I knew early on that I wanted to help people grow,” Andrew says. “School gave me structure and support. I wanted to give that back.”

A Path Through Education

After high school, Andrew attended Highland Community College. He graduated in 2007 and went on to Northern Illinois University, where he earned his bachelor’s degree in 2010. He later earned two master’s degrees from Western Illinois University and continued learning at the University of Illinois at Springfield in 2020.

“Learning didn’t stop when I got my first job,” he explains. “In education, you have to stay open. Every year brings something new.”

Over the years, Andrew has taken on different roles. He started as an assistant principal. Then he served as a principal for four years before becoming superintendent of Donovan CUSD #3. In that role, he now oversees the school district.

The Work Behind the Scenes

Andrew’s job goes beyond school buildings. He’s worked on state-level education programs. He serves on the Illinois Masonic Student Assistance Program (IMSAP), which offers free professional development to schools across the state. He’s also been part of State Representative Jason Bunting’s educational committee.

He’s proud of the resources he’s helped secure. In 2024, he received a $210,693 Stronger Connections Grant through the Illinois State Board of Education. He also helped bring a High-Impact Tutoring Grant from Illinois State University to his district between 2022 and 2024.

“Grants aren’t just money,” Andrew says. “They’re tools. They help us build spaces that support students better.”

One of those spaces is a redesigned school library. With funding, he helped turn it into a modern media center and learning hub.

A Community-Driven Leader

Andrew’s leadership comes from experience, not just titles. He ran the Stockton 3-on-3 Basketball Tournament for 15 years, raising over $50,000 for the local community. He co-owned J3 Timing and the Wine Run 5K with his brother before they sold the businesses.

He’s also been involved in sports organizations. From 2014 to 2016, he served on the Illinois Basketball Coaches Association Class 1A/2A All-State voting committee. He’s currently president of Watseka Masonic Lodge #446 and a voice in IMSAP’s statewide work.

“I like to stay involved,” he says. “You learn a lot by showing up—whether it’s a board meeting or a basketball court.”

Challenges and Growth

Like many in school leadership, Andrew has faced hard times. He’s worked in districts with struggles and has had to navigate tough decisions. But he doesn’t shy away from the realities of his work.

“Not every day is a win,” he admits. “But every day is a chance to learn something—about people, systems, or yourself.”

His time as principal at West Carroll CUSD #314 was part of that learning process. It wasn’t always easy, but it helped shape the kind of leader he is today.

“I don’t forget where I’ve been,” he says. “Good or bad, it all matters.”

Staying Grounded

Despite all the titles and committee work, Andrew stays grounded. He enjoys hiking, running, golf, and watching sports. He still lives in Illinois and keeps close ties with his family—his brother Tom runs J3 Timing, and his other brother, Steve, played golf at Highland Community College.

For Andrew, balance is key.

“You need time away from work to stay fresh,” he says. “A long run clears your head. So does time with family.”

Looking Forward

Andrew Jordan’s story isn’t about flashy success. It’s about consistency. It’s about showing up, doing the work, and finding ways to make education better.

“I don’t have all the answers,” he says. “But I listen. I care. That’s where good leadership starts.”

In a time when education faces many challenges, leaders like Andrew remind us of the value of community, humility, and hands-on experience. His path shows that real impact often starts in small places—with people who are willing to step up and do the work, day after day.

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