Dr. Polyak continues to serve as the proud Superintendent of Leyden Community High School District 212, in Illinois, and award-winning school district. Over the past few years at Leyden, the district has received many honors. They were named the 2014 National Advanced Placement District of the Year by the College Board. In addition, the district has welcomed over two thousand visitors to learn about teaching and learning in a 1:1 environment. Leyden’s School Board’s support and vision for digital transformation was recognized with a Magna Award from the National School Board Association (NSBA) and a Digital Content and Curriculum Award. Both Leyden High Schools were recently named Illinois Democracy Schools. Leyden has also been named to the 2014 and 2015 Top 100 Workplaces by the Chicago Tribune.
Nick began his educational career in Lincoln-Way High School District 210 as a high school Math Teacher and Tennis/Soccer Coach. He has served as Dean of Students, Assistant Principal, and Director of Instruction and Staff Development. He then began his superintendency in Peoria for Illinois Valley Central School District #321.
Dr. Polyak's strong belief in community involvement is a driving force in his professional life. He has served as the past President of two different Chambers of Commerce, dedicated four years as a School Board Member in Manhattan School District 114, and actively coached youth sports. His involvement in a variety of other community groups and charitable efforts is a testament to his commitment to making a positive impact. Nick's completion of the Illinois Association of School Administrators (IASA) School for Advanced Leadership in 2014 and the American Association of School Administrators (AASA) National Superintendent Certification Program in 2016 further demonstrate his dedication to his profession.
Dr. Polyak's educational journey is a testament to his commitment to excellence. He holds a doctorate in Educational Leadership and Supervision from Loyola University Chicago, where he was honored with the Phi Delta Kappa Outstanding Doctoral Dissertation Award. His Master of Arts Degree and Chief School Business Officer (CSBO) license from Governors State University further solidify his expertise. His Bachelor of Arts Degree in Mathematics and Secondary Education, from Augusta College, laid the foundation for his successful career in education.
Superintendent Nick Polyak, PhD