Sara Solheim has been named a Dean at Niles West High School, starting August 5, 2024. The Niles Township High School Board of Education approved her appointment at their July 9, 2024 meeting.

Sara’s career in education started when she was a high school English teacher. After several years in the classroom, Sara’s interest in helping students with their social/emotional health caused her to pursue her Master’s in Social Work to become a school social worker. She has worked in this role for the past nine years at Round Lake High School. During her time there she created and facilitated multiple therapeutic groups, professional development sessions for staff, and created and managed an onsite food pantry for the students and families. 

Sara is also a certified trauma clinician and LCSW (Licensed Clinical Social Worker). She comes to Niles West excited to step into a new role as a dean. Sara is invested in restorative practices and working with the school community to help students flourish both academically and social/emotionally. 

Sara lives in Skokie with her wife and their two children. In her spare time she is an avid runner, hiker, gardener, and loves to bake. She is thrilled to be part of Niles West and looks forward to working with the whole school community.