A Message from Superintendent Dr. Allen Duncan as We Begin the 2026-27 School Year

July 9, 2026 

Dear District 7 Staff and Families,  

As I begin my first official year as Superintendent of Edwardsville Community Unit School District 7, I am honored and grateful for the opportunity to continue serving a community that has been such an important part of my life and career for more than 22 years. 

Our mission in District 7 is simple yet powerful: Empowering each student to achieve personal success. Everything we do during the 2026–2027 school year will be rooted in and aligned with this mission. You will hear it referenced often throughout the school year because it serves as the foundation for every decision we make and every action we take on behalf of our students.  

It is important to understand what this mission means in practice: 

Empower 
We strive to do more than teach or manage. We provide students with the tools, confidence, and support they need to take ownership of their learning and growth. Our role is to build capacity within students, helping them develop the skills, knowledge, and mindset necessary for lifelong success. 

Each 
This means every student, not most students, not the average student, and not only those who are easiest to serve. It reflects our commitment to meeting students where they are and supporting their individual needs. Whether a student is gifted, learning English, receiving special education services, or requiring additional support, every student matters. 

Achieve 
Achievement represents growth, progress, and meaningful outcomes. We are not simply providing opportunities and hoping students find success on their own. We are committed to helping every student reach their goals and realize their potential. 

Personal Success 
Success looks different for every student. For one student, it may be earning a college scholarship. For another, it may be obtaining a trade certification, securing meaningful employment, serving in the military, or becoming a responsible and contributing member of society. Our responsibility is to help each student define and pursue their own path to success. 

Living out this mission requires all of us to work together. As your Superintendent, I am committed to leading with a focus on the following priorities: 

• Student and Staff Safety 

• Academic Achievement 

• Transparency 

• Fiscal Responsibility 

• District Assessment and Continuous Improvement  

District 7 has a long-standing tradition of excellence and a strong foundation upon which to build. My goal is not to change what makes District 7 special, but rather to strengthen that foundation and continue moving our district forward. In every decision we make, we will remain focused on our mission of empowering each student to achieve personal success. 

I am excited about the work ahead and grateful for the opportunity to serve the students, staff, families, and community of District 7. Together, we will continue providing the opportunities, support, and experiences our students need to learn, grow, and thrive. 

Thank you for your partnership and trust as we begin this new school year. 

Sincerely,  

Dr. Allen Duncan, Jr.  
Superintendent