Effingham school system names next superintendent ahead of 2028 transition

EFFINGHAM, Ill. (WAND) — The Effingham Unit #40 Board of Education has named its next superintendent.

Following the planned retirement of current superintendent Andrew D. Johnson on June 30, 2028, Kelsey Baker will take on the role.

Baker was a student in the Effingham Unit #40 school system from kindergarten through her graduation from Effingham High School.

She has worked in the area for nearly 20 years serving in multiple roles, including:

Special education teacher at Central Grade School for three years and Effingham Junior High School for eight years
Principal of Fresh Start Treatment and Learning Center for the Eastern Illinois Area Special Education (EIASE) Cooperative for two years
Assistant principal of Effingham Junior High School for three years
Assistant superintendent for Effingham Unit #40 for three years

"I am incredibly honored to be selected to lead the district that has given me so much," said Baker. "I look forward to working with Mr. Johnson, our staff, and our community to provide the best possible education for every student."

Baker will transition into the role of deputy superintendent on July 1, 2026 before officially assuming the full duties of superintendent on July 1, 2028.