Deniz Aslan Named Director of Curriculum and Instruction

Summit Hill School District 161 Meeting | Jan. 21, 2026

Article Summary: After serving as the interim director, Deniz Aslan was officially hired as the Director of Curriculum and Instruction for Summit Hill School District 161. The board praised her performance and leadership following a challenging transition period for the district office.

Employment Key Points:

• New Role: Deniz Aslan moves from Interim Director to permanent Director of Curriculum and Instruction.

• Effective Date: The new contract is effective July 1, 2026.

• Background: Aslan has been with the district since 2007, serving as an instructional assistant, teacher, and coordinator.

• Board Sentiment: The appointment was met with unanimous approval and high praise from colleagues.

FRANKFORT — The Summit Hill School District 161 Board of Education on Tuesday, January 21, 2026, voted unanimously to appoint Deniz Aslan as the permanent Director of Curriculum and Instruction.

Aslan, who had been filling the role on an interim basis, will officially assume the permanent title effective July 1, 2026.

Superintendent Dr. Paul McDermott recommended the appointment, highlighting Aslan’s dedication during a difficult period that included the resignation of the former director and the recent passing of Director of Business Services Julie Stearns.

“She has done so with hard work, grace, humor, and connection,” McDermott said. “Not only has she far exceeded expectations, but she has also helped the district office team move forward.”

Aslan began her career in the district in 2007 as an instructional assistant before becoming a teacher at Indian Trail School in 2008. She later served as a coordinator of instructional support.

Earlier in the meeting, Aslan also received a Summit Award alongside Coordinator of Instructional Support Katie Sullivan for their contributions to the district.

“A lot of your colleagues said really high things about you,” Board Member Adrian Chavez said following the vote. “If I had a golden buzzer, I’d hit it for you.”