District 64 Announces New Principals for Emerson and Field Schools

Niles students will soon be meeting two new principals in Park Ridge-Niles School District 64.

At its meeting Monday night, the board of education confirmed James Morrison as the new principal at Emerson Middle School, and Susan Cahail as the incoming leader at Eugene Field School.

Morrison to take helm of Emerson

Morrison, who was chosen from a pool of 77 applicants, has been principal of Lincoln Middle School in Skokie School District 69 for the past seven years, and he will succeed Dr. Vicki Mogil, who is retiring. Morrison will start July 1.

Morrison has worked in Niles before, when he worked as assistant principal at Gemini Junior High School, in East Maine School District 63, for three years. Before that, he worked as a math, science and physical education teacher, as well as coach and athletic director, at Pennoyer School District 79 in Norridge. 

“We believe Mr. Morrison’s lengthy experience working with young adolescents and his active, energetic and visible style will be a good fit for Emerson, with its tradition of strong leadership and high educational goals,” stated Superintendent Philip Bender in a prepared statement.

“His efforts to create a respectful and positive climate every day for learning and teaching through trust and communication also mirrors what we emphasize in District 64.”

Morrison is working on his doctorate at Northern Illinois University.  

Susan Cahail Named for Field School 

Susan Cahail has served since 2007 as principal of Red Oak Elementary School in North Shore School District 112 in Highland Park. She'll succeed Principal Kathy Creely, who is retiring. The transition will take place July 1. 

Earlier, Cahail, who was chosen from 76 applicants, worked as principal or assistant principal at a Mannheim District 83 school in Franklin Park for three years. She taught in Wilmette and Colorado and served as a mentor-teacher in the Chicago Public Schools. 

She's pursuing a doctorate in education from Loyola University of Chicago.

“We believe Ms. Cahail’s concentration on each student’s personal growth will carry forward the Field School commitment to help children continually perform at their personal best,” noted Superintendent Philip Bender in a prepared statement. “Her use of technology to increase effective communication and her efforts to engage the community to create openness and transparency also make her an outstanding fit for District 64.”