The superintendent for Crystal Lake-based Prairie Grove School District #46 has suddenly resigned and the school board said the district is now at a “pivotal moment” that demands “clarity, transparency and trust.”
The Board of Education for the Prairie Grove Consolidated School District #46 sent a community letter on Tuesday informing parents and students that Superintendent Dr. John Bute had resigned on Friday.
“The Board of Education will be meeting as soon as possible to discuss next steps and ensure continuity for our students, staff, and community,” the letter said.
The Board of Education held a special meeting on Wednesday to take steps to ensure “stability and clarity” as the district moves through the leadership transition.
The board appointed Dr. Joseph Bailey and Dr. Bhavna Sharma-Lewis as Interim Superintendents effective immediately.
They will lead District 46 through the remainder of the 2025–2026 school year ahead of the official start of incoming Superintendent Victoria Larsen, who begins in the position on July 1, 2026.
Bailey brings experience in district finance, operations and organizational leadership after having served as superintendent in Medinah School District 11 for 10 years and Lincolnwood School District 74 for five years, the board said in a statement.
“His work has included guiding districts through complex financial and operational challenges and strengthening systems to support long-term sustainability,” they said.
Sharma-Lewis recently retired after 15 years as a superintendent in Illinois where she most recently served Diamond Lake School District 76.
“She is widely recognized for strengthening district culture, improving communication practices, and deepening staff and community engagement while maintaining a strong focus on student success,” the board said.
The unusual dual-interim model ensures “continuous superintendent oversight” while complying with state limits on the number of days retired superintendents may work in a school year, according to the district.
Bailey and Sharma-Lewis will share time in the district and responsibilities to ensure consistent leadership and full coverage throughout the transition.
The two will conduct a comprehensive review of district operations, finances and systems, listen closely to staff perspectives and experiences, identify strengths and areas for improvement, and prepare clear recommendations for the incoming superintendent.
Bailey and Sharma-Lewis met with staff on Thursday.
“District 46 is at a pivotal moment that demands clarity, transparency, and trust. The Board, alongside the interim leaders and our incoming superintendent, is approaching this period with a focus on listening, assessing, and setting the stage for long-term success,” the board’s statement said.
It is unclear why Bute abruptly quit his position. He was originally set to retire at the end of June 2026.