Lorence Reid was named the Chippewa Middle School assistant principal at the July 17 Board of Education meeting.

Reid has 14 years of experience in education. He was the Principal of the Directions Program and the Title I Coordinator for Glenbard District 87. Prior to that, he was the Student Interventionist at Urbana High School (UHS) and the Summer Transition Coordinator for both the Middle and High School at Urbana School District 116. He taught Social Studies and English in several school districts including Urbana School District 116 and Decatur Public Schools District 61. 

“I am both excited and humbled to be the new assistant principal at Chippewa Middle School,” said Lorence Reid. “Alongside Principal Juliana Vissering, I am looking forward to being the bridge between our school and community so that we can work collaboratively to create an equitable, safe, warm and welcoming learning environment that promotes learning and growth for all of our students at CMS.” 

Reid graduated from Western Michigan University with a Bachelor’s of Arts degree majoring in Secondary Education and History and minoring in English. He completed his Master’s degree in Education Policy Organization Leadership (EPOL) and is currently working on a Doctoral Degree in EPOL at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. Reid’s focus in his Doctoral program is in ubiquitous learning, equity and implementing technology in the classroom. 

“I am excited to welcome Mr. Reid to the Chippewa Middle School team this coming school year,” said Principal Juliana Vissering. “His commitment to student learning, experiences with restorative practices and ability to build meaningful relationships with students, staff and families will make him a wonderful addition to the Chippewa community.” 

Reid became a strong classroom teacher by working in both alternative and traditional school settings. He mentored 1st and 2nd year teachers at District 116 and took on student teachers and observers inside of his classroom from the University of Illinois and Eastern Illinois. Reid provided professional development to staff on topics including implementing technology in the classroom, classroom management and differentiated instruction. As an educational leader, Reid is heavily trained in racial equity, crisis intervention strategies, restorative practices and social justice. He implemented multi-tiered systems of supports, social and emotional learning and positive behavioral interventions and supports to impact students and assist teachers in the learning environment. 

Reid is originally from a small town in Michigan called Berrien Springs. Both of Reid’s parents were educators that positively impacted his life. He is a skilled musician and has a passion for inspiring young people.

“My goal as an educational leader is to provide interventions and supports to all stakeholders,” said Reid. "I want to ensure that our students are well supported and have a voice, and our teachers are empowered and valued at CMS. We will have an ongoing working relationship with our parents and community to best impact our students.”

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