La Salle-Peru Appoints Ingrid Cushing as New Assistant Superintendent

The La Salle-Peru Township High School Board of Education has appointed Principal Ingrid Cushing as the new assistant superintendent, effective immediately. This decision was announced during the board’s regular meeting on Wednesday night, following the acceptance of separation agreements for former district Superintendent Steven Wrobleski and district business manager Jennifer Does due to alleged misconduct.

In her new role, Cushing will oversee district-level decision-making and management for the remainder of the school year. She has been serving as the principal of La Salle-Peru since 2020 and previously held the position of associate principal for teaching and learning from 2016 to 2020. Cushing is expected to transition into the district office during the upcoming winter break.

Leadership Changes at La Salle-Peru

To fill Cushing’s previous role as principal, the board appointed Catherine Lance as interim principal. Lance, who currently serves as associate principal for teaching and learning, will maintain those responsibilities alongside her new duties for the rest of the academic year.

In a broader context of administrative changes, the board has also chosen Dr. Clayton Theisinger as the next superintendent, with his start date set for July 1, 2026. Additionally, Lori Whalen has been appointed to the business manager position, having previously held this role from 2018 to 2023.

These leadership transitions come at a critical time for the La Salle-Peru district, as it seeks to move forward and address the challenges presented by recent administrative controversies. The board’s decisions reflect its commitment to maintaining stability and continuity in the district’s governance.