From football fields to school hallways, one Illinois principal reflects on how consistency, trust, and trail runs shape his leadership style

WATSEKA, IL / ACCESS Newswire / May 27, 2025 / Principal and superintendent Andrew Jordan is featured in an exclusive new interview titled "Leading with Purpose: The Everyday Habits and Lessons of Andrew Jordan," offering a personal and practical look at the routines, reflections, and challenges that shape his career in education.

Raised in Stockton, Illinois, Jordan's leadership roots trace back to 2004, when he led his high school football team as quarterback in a state championship game. From there, his journey took him through Highland Community College, Northern Illinois University, and advanced graduate studies at Western Illinois University and the University of Illinois at Springfield. Along the way, he has held roles as coach, teacher, assistant principal, principal, and currently, superintendent at Donovan CUSD #3.

In the interview, Jordan opens up about what his typical day looks like-starting early, blocking time for deep work, and walking school hallways to stay connected. He also shares how he uses tools like Google Keep, why he thinks email is overrated, and how trail running helps him reset during stressful days.

"I go running. Or hiking. If I'm near a trail, that's even better," Jordan explains. "Something about movement outdoors resets everything."

The interview goes beyond routine, diving into lessons from early failures, thoughts on building learning spaces with purpose, and small practices like thank-you notes that can shift an entire school culture.

Readers will also find ideas like a subscription box for school administrators and reflections on motivation from Jon Gordon's Energy Bus. Jordan's blend of practicality and humility makes the piece a meaningful read for educators, leaders, and anyone curious about how purpose shows up in everyday decisions.

About Andrew Jordan

Andrew Jordan is a public school superintendent and former principal based in Illinois. With a career grounded in student-centered leadership, he has served as a grant writer, educational committee member, and active participant in community and statewide initiatives focused on professional development and school improvement.

To read the full interview, click here.

Contact: info@andrewjordan.com

SOURCE: Andrew Jordan