Bob Guercio has been chosen as the new principal of Franklin Elementary School, with his appointment pending approval by the school board on Thursday. If approved, he will begin his role on July 1, 2026.
Guercio is originally from Park Ridge and is returning to lead a school that has recently seen positive results among students and staff. In a statement, Guercio said, “I’m so excited to bring my love for education back to the community I was raised in. I look forward to connecting with the Franklin staff and meeting all of the wonderful people who contribute to such an amazing school community.”
For the past six years, Guercio has served as principal at Norman Bridge School in Chicago, where he oversaw two campuses with more than 1,100 students. During his tenure there, he led efforts in instructional improvement, social-emotional learning initiatives, research-based curriculum adoption, and standards-based grading. He also introduced best practices across both campuses that promoted shared responsibility for building a positive school culture and increased effective restorative practices throughout the school.
Before joining Norman Bridge School, Guercio worked as an assistant principal for two years and began his teaching career as an elementary literacy and technology teacher. His first year was spent teaching first grade. He holds degrees from DePaul University and Concordia University.
Guercio will succeed Dr. Williams, who has served as Franklin’s principal for six years. Dr. Williams is leaving at the end of this school year to become Assistant Superintendent of Teaching, Learning, and Accountability for Glen Ellyn School District 41.
Dr. Ben Collins, superintendent of Park Ridge-Niles School District 64 Board, announced Guercio’s selection.
