The Forrestville Valley Community Unit School District #221 Board of Education announces that Superintendent Sheri Smith and Forreston Junior/Senior High School Principal Travis Heinz have shared their future plans to retire from the district.

Mr. Heinz has served the district for more than two decades as an educator, coach, and school leader. He has built lasting relationships with students, families, staff, and community members. Mr. Heinz has scheduled his retirement at the conclusion of the 2028-2029 school year and shares, “Forrestville Valley is a special place and one I will always refer to as family. It has been a blessing to work here all these years and an even bigger blessing to have worked with so many special people who have had a huge impact on me and my family.”

Mrs. Smith has served as superintendent since 2014, bringing her experience in teaching, special education, and district leadership to the Forrestville Valley community. Mrs. Smith plans to retire at the conclusion of the 2031-2032 school year, totaling her years in the district to 18. Mrs. Smith states, “I am deeply grateful to the Board of Education, our staff, families, and community for the trust and support they have given me throughout my years at Forrestville Valley. I am committed to working closely with the Board to ensure a smooth transition while continuing to give our students and staff my very best. There is still important work to do, and I am excited for the future of our district.”

Board vice president Shaun Gallagher commented, “We celebrate the accomplishments of both Mr. Heinz and Mrs. Smith and their dedicated service to the district, while continuing to maintain the highest level of commitment to education for our Cardinal families during this transition.”

The Board is committed to a thoughtful transition for both positions. It will establish a timeline for each replacement, and work with Mrs. Smith and Mr. Heinz to support continuity in district operations at Forreston Junior/Senior High School. The Board will share updates as those plans take shape.

“The Board is deeply grateful to Mrs. Smith and Mr. Heinz for their years of dedicated service,” said board president Chip Braker. “Their care for students and commitment to our schools have made a lasting difference. We look forward to their continued leadership as we embark on future transition planning."