By Andrea Arens

Peotone 207U Names Dr. Mark Cohen as New Superintendent Andrea Arens

Peotone School District 207U has selected Dr. Mark Cohen as its next superintendent, bringing in an experienced educational leader with more than two decades in Illinois schools.

According to the district, Cohen is coming from Naperville District 203 where he served as deputy superintendent of high schools. Before that, Cohen was Superintendent in Mokena District 59 and Assistant Superintendent of Human Resources in Elmhurst Community Unit School District 205.

Cohen’s career spans multiple leadership roles across the region. He began in education as a physics teacher in Lincoln-Way High School District 210, where he worked from 1999 to 2016 and also served in additional roles, including building administration at Lincoln Way North before it closed.

Cohen holds a Doctor of Education degree from Loyola University Chicago, a Master of Arts from Governors State University and a Bachelor of Science from Illinois State University.

Beyond his work in schools, Cohen is active in community and professional organizations. His previous district said he is involved in local Chambers of Commerce as well as Lions and Kiwanis clubs, and is a member of several professional groups, including the American Association of School Administrators, the DuPage Area Occupational Education System and the Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development.

He was also recognized earlier in his career as the 2004 Illinois Education Association Bob Haisman Teacher of the Year.

Cohen addressed meeting attendees and added, “Here’s a cleaned-up, publication-ready version of the quote:

“I’m very excited to join the Peotone community. This is my 27th year in education. I began my career as a high school science teacher before serving as an assistant principal, principal, assistant superintendent and, most recently, superintendent in Mokena.

Over the past few weeks, as I’ve visited and interviewed, everyone has been absolutely fabulous. It’s such a wonderful community. I look forward to starting on July 1 and getting to know all of you better. I’m very much looking forward to working together.”

Cohen, a Tinley Park resident, is expected to assume the superintendent role beginning in July 2026.

Andrea Arens is a freelance reporter.