D155 Board Approves Two New Principals for Next School Year
Community High School District 155’s Board of Education approved Dan Nicholas as the next principal of Cary-Grove High School and Dan DeBruycker as the next principal of Crystal Lake South High School, beginning July 1, 2026.
“Both Dan Nicholas and Dan DeBruycker bring a wealth of experience, strong instructional leadership, and a deep commitment to students,” said Dr. Neil Lesinski, Superintendent of Community High School District 155. “They each have demonstrated the ability to lead with integrity, build strong relationships, and elevate the learning experience for students and staff alike.”
Dan Nicholas currently serves as principal at Wauconda High School, a position he has held for the past three years. His previous experience includes serving as associate principal of curriculum and instruction for Round Lake High School, teaching and learning coordinator for social science and physical education, social studies department head, teacher, and coach.
"I am thrilled to be the next principal at Cary-Grove High School. It is a profound privilege to serve the students, staff, and community in a school with such a rich tradition of excellence. I’m eager to get started and foster meaningful relationships while working together to empower our students to become the best version of themselves,” said Dan Nicholas.
Dan DeBruycker began his educational career at Crystal Lake South High School as a math teacher, assistant athletic director, and head boys basketball coach. He later served as an athletic director, assistant principal for five years, and has spent the past three years as principal at Metea Valley High School.
“D155 inspired my passion and purpose for education as a teacher. It’s an honor to come full circle as the principal of Crystal Lake South. I’m truly blessed and look forward to leading this incredible community, dedicated staff, and outstanding students. Go Gators,” said Dan DeBruycker.
The selection process included multiple rounds of interviews with staff, students, parents, and district administrators.
“Dan Nicholas and Dan DeBruycker both exemplify the leadership qualities we value in District 155 with a focus on relationships, high expectations for learning, and a genuine care for students and staff,” Lesinski said. “We’re thrilled to welcome them into these new roles.”
Dan Nicholas will replace Rebecca Saffert, who is retiring as principal from Cary-Grove High School after 33 years of service in District 155 at the end of the school year. Dan DeBruycker will replace Kimberly Bromley, who has been named the director of multilingual services and family engagement for the next school year. Both new principals will begin their new roles on July 1, 2026.