District Directory

Superintendent Joseph Sander, Ed.D., is excited to lead Morton CUSD 709.

Previously, in the role of Assistant Superintendent, Dr. Sander was responsible for human resource functions and district operations, supporting seven educational centers that serve more than 3,300 students.

Dr. Sander graduated from Illinois State University in 1994 with a Bachelor of Science degree in mathematics with a focus on secondary education. That same year, he began his career in education at Washington Community High School, where he taught Algebra I, Geometry, and Algebra II. During this time, he, also, coached baseball, was the junior class sponsor and student council advisor.

In 2004, he transitioned to an administrative path where he has experience as an assistant principal, principal, and assistant superintendent. Dr. Sander has enjoyed 20 years of administrative experience that span the education of students at the elementary, middle school and high school level.

Dr. Sander is married to his wife, Jennifer, and together they have four children: Luke, Ryan, Jillian, and Matthew. Luke is a graduate of SIU Edwardsville and is pursuing a military career with the United States Air Force. Ryan is a student at St. Ambrose University studying vocal and instrumental education. Jillian is a student at SIU Edwardsville and is looking to pursue a master’s degree in Occupational Therapy. Matthew is a senior at Morton High School.

In addition to a career in education, he has also served in the military for more than 35 years and is currently a Lieutenant Colonel in the 182d Airlift Wing. His military career includes 15 years of service as enlisted and officer in the Army National Guard with the 1st of the 106th Aviation Battalion. In 2003, he crossed over to the blue and joined the Air National Guard, where he held positions in Services, Personnel, and Finance. He currently serves as the Logistics Readiness Squadron Commander.

When he is not working in education or the military, Dr. Sander enjoys spending quality time with his family, with church functions, and participating in sports and outdoor activities.

Education
1994 Bachelor of Science, Mathematics, Illinois State University, Normal, Illinois
2000 Master of Science, Industrial Technology, Illinois State University, Normal, Illinois
2004 General Administrative Certification, Education Administration, Bradley University, Peoria, Illinois
2011 Educational Specialist, Educational Leadership, Western Illinois University, Macomb, Illinois
2016 Doctorate of Education, Aurora University, Aurora, Illinois


Service in Education
1994-2004 Math Teacher, Coach, Advisor, Washington Community High School District 308
2004-2005 Assistant Principal, Morton High School, MCUSD 709
2005-2010 Principal, Central Junior High School, East Peoria Elementary District 86
2010-2012 Principal, Glendale School, East Peoria Elementary District 86
2012-2022 Assistant Superintendent, Washington Community High School District 308
2022-Current Assistant Superintendent, Morton MCUSD 709