Dr. Genevra Walters vision is to “develop an educational system that creates opportunities for all children to be valued, contributing citizens in a fast changing global society She is committed to the growth and development of life-long learners. Dr. Walters attended the University of Illinois at Chicago for both a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Social Work. She completed an educational doctorate at Illinois State University. Dr. Walters’ emphasis during her doctoral program was teacher education and research.

Dr. Walters has had opportunities to present at numerous local, state, national, and international conferences on numerous educational topics. During June of 2004, she presented at the China- US Conference on Educating Students with Special Needs in Beijing, China. Her topic was “Building Collaborative Relationships with Families”. The conference was a wonderful experience and increased her understanding of diversity, her compassion for people, and the desire to help promote and develop children regardless of their backgrounds and experiences.

Dr. Walters is the Co-author of the book, “What Works for Special Education and At-Risk Learners: A Framework for General Education Teachers and Administrators”. The book provides a framework and initiatives that can be used to increase the quality of education for all students. The strategies in this book can be used in school environments regardless of abilities or disabilities.

Dr. Walters returned to Kankakee School District 111 as the new Superintendent on May 30, 2014. During her time she has developed a K-5 career framework, designed a college career academy model, and set a vision to transform Secondary Education from a factory – mindset to an inquiry based model. Kankakee School District was one of the first High Schools in Illinois to participate in a pilot for Competency Based Education which shifts from time being the constant to LEARNING being the constant. She states that she is honored to return home and serve the students, families, and community as the Educational Leader for the Kankakee Community. Because of her leadership Kankakee School District is achieving one community, one district, one vision for all children.