Jim Widdop received a promotion today when he was sworn in as the new Rock Island County Regional Superintendent. He replaces Joe Vermeire, who held the post for 18 years.
Widdop,46, served as the assistant superintendent for the last three years.
He is wasting no time in getting adjusted to the new position. He outlined a series of new goals and priorities Wednesday for his office that include the following:
- Maintaining a high level of educational services for schools in Rock Island County.
- Helping schools meet the increasing demands of No Child Left Behind.
- Creating a better understanding among the public about the demands schools face.
- Better informing residents of the services available to their children.
- Keeping people up-to-date on legislation, legal issues, cooperative management and research.
The County board approved Widdop’s appointment last month. He will run in the February primary for the elected office.