By Jerry Lindsey, Assistant Editor.
The Morrison School District will open the 2025-2026 school year under the leadership of Dr. Matthew DeBeane [/duh-BANE]. The Superintendent position has been a revolving door for several semesters, awaiting the School Board’s search to end with the appropriate candidate.
Dr. DeBeane brings experience in the administrative area after serving as Assistant Principal at Geneseo High School and Assistant Superintendent in the Moline-Coal Valley School District. His experience in the larger school district allowed him the opportunity to be a major part of changes and improvements in curriculum, instruction, assessment, instructional technology, and safety, which are all critical to maintain an effective learning environment in today’s educational world.
Dr. DeBeane acknowledges that the position holds a real need, to be able to connect with the people and issues that confront students on a regular basis. Accepting that challenge, he anxiously looks forward to working with the Board of Education and parents and focusing on the needs of the District to provide a productive, enjoyable, and lasting education for students of Morrison.
When asked, “What can the Community do to strengthen the City/School relationship?” DeBeane responded, “I believe the relationship between our City and our School is fundamentally a partnership, and there’s so much we can do together to strengthen it even further. First and foremost, increased communication and collaboration are key. We need to continue fostering open dialogues between City leadership, School Administration, and Community organizations. This means a commitment to understanding each other’s goals and challenges. When we’re all at a table that supports each other and wants success, we can identify areas where our efforts can be synergistic, whether it’s in public safety, recreational programs, or economic development.
“Secondly, I’d emphasize the power of active community engagement in our schools. We welcome and encourage parents, local businesses, and community members to get involved. This could be through volunteering, mentoring, offering internships, or participating in school events. These connections enrich the learning environment of our students and build a stronger sense of shared ownership in their success. Our schools are community hubs; the more vibrant and integrated they are with the wider City, the better.
“Finally, and perhaps most importantly, we can strengthen this relationship by celebrating our shared successes and investing our collective future. When our schools excel, our City benefits. When our City thrives, our Schools have more resources and opportunities. Let’s work together to promote the incredible achievements of our students and educators. Let’s advocate for policies and resources that support both our educational system and our municipal services.”
“I am incredibly optimistic about the future of Morrison. We have a dedicated and caring community….By working hand-in-hand, we can create an environment where every child has the opportunity to reach their full potential, and when our City continues to be a vibrant and desirable place to live, work, and learn, it’s truly a win-win for everyone.”
Dr. DeBeane has two daughters: Emma (19) is a Pre-Med student at the University of Illinois; Evelyn (15) is a Sophomore at Geneseo High School.
The Superintendent’s Office is found in the Farm Bureau Building, located at 100 W. Knox Street, Morrison. Dr. DeBaene may be reached by phone at 815-772-2064 or via e-mail at matt.debeane@morrisonschools.org