For Immediate Release – May 28, 2025
Mattoon CUSD #2 Welcomes New Administration During Special Board Meeting
(Mattoon, IL — May 28, 2025) Mattoon CUSD #2 is pleased to announce the hiring of three new administrators who will transition into their new roles ahead of the 2025-26 school year. These new assignments follow the recent resignations of LIFT Director, McLain Schaefer and long-term Assistant Superintendent, Christy Hild. The goal of these recommendations is to continue the dedicated work of Mr. Schaefer and Dr. Hild and to reflect the district’s commitment to student excellence, educational progress, and innovative growth.
Joining the leadership team:
● Todd Butler, formerly of Cumberland CUSD #77, will join Mattoon CUSD #2 as the interim LIFT Director. With over 30 years of experience in education, Todd looks forward to leveraging his strong connections with regional schools and passion for the trades to continue building meaningful partnerships with students, schools, and local industries.
● Chad Arnold has been promoted as the new Assistant Superintendent after 23 years of service to the Mattoon school district, with 17 of those years in an administrative role. Chad’s longstanding commitment to special education and inclusive learning will bring invaluable insight to his new role, where he will help lead the development of programs that serve all students effectively.
● With Mr. Arnold’s transition to Assistant Superintendent, Tera Stewart will step into the role of Mattoon Middle School Principal. Following a successful tenure as Assistant Principal at MMS, Tera will bring with her a leadership style grounded in collaboration, equity, and academic success.
“We are thrilled to welcome these talented leaders to our team,” notes Tim Condron, Superintendent of Mattoon CUSD #2. “Each brings a unique set of skills, experiences, and passion for education that will strengthen our district and help us continue providing exceptional learning environments for our students. We look forward to working together and seeing their vision, enthusiasm, and dedication shape a brighter future for our schools and community.”
The district is also taking the time to recognize the contributions of the outgoing administrators, Dr. Hild and Mr. Schaefer, whose dedication has helped lay a strong foundation for this transition. Their service and commitment to the families and students within the community are sincerely appreciated.
In recognition of their contributions, Board Vice President Ashli Overton shares, “We are deeply grateful to Dr. Hild and Mr. Schaefer for their years of dedicated service to our families and community. Christy has been instrumental in laying a strong foundation for curriculum development, and her influence will be felt for years to come, especially in all of the future leaders who graduate from Mattoon Schools. McLain leaves behind an innovative legacy at LIFT, setting a high standard for excellence, leadership, and creativity. Their leadership has helped shape a stronger district, and we wish them all the best in their next chapters. While their departures mark a time of transition, their legacy has helped pave the way for new opportunities and continued growth.”
This leadership transition occurred on a relatively quick timeline, and the district is especially grateful to have a full staff and team of dedicated, knowledgeable leaders. Their adaptability and willingness to lead in this moment speaks to the strength of our community. Looking ahead, these movements along with some upcoming retirements, will result in a few additional leadership opportunities that will be posted immediately including the Mattoon Middle School Assistant Principal (2025-26 school year), the Arland D. Williams Jr. Principal (2026-27 school year), the LIFT Director (2026-27 school year) and the Assistant Superintendent (2026-27 school year). The district is committed to a clear process in building a leadership team that attracts a strong candidate pool of talented educators reflecting the district’s values and serving all students.
Board President Dale Righter recognized the team’s resilience and growth by stating, “Change brings both challenges and opportunities, and I’m incredibly proud of how our team continues to adapt with grace, professionalism, and a focus on what’s best for students. Transitions like these are never easy, but they reflect a district that is growing, evolving, and preparing for an even stronger future. I’m excited to see how our new leaders build on the solid foundation we’ve created together.”
All three new assignments will begin their roles in the 2025-26 school year, and the district looks forward to introducing them to families and community members via the district website and social media platforms. For more information, or any media inquiries, please reach out to communications@mcusd2.com.
