At a special board meeting on Monday, Dec. 1, the Francis Howell School District unanimously appointed Mark Delaney as the District’s next superintendent, marking the board’s first decisive action since months of turbulence surrounding the abrupt hiring and resignation of former superintendent Dr. Mike Dominguez.

Delaney, deputy superintendent, has served as interim superintendent since July and will begin his new contract on Jan. 1, 2026. He is set to remain in the role through the end of the current school year and the following two years, with his contract concluding on June 30, 2028.

Board President Steven Blair emphasized Delaney’s commitment to Francis Howell.

“With more than two decades of service to Francis Howell, Mr. Delaney is an experienced leader, and one who is respected by parents, community members, and staff throughout the District,” Blair said. “I can say without a doubt that he is the right person to lead us into the next chapter and deliver on the lofty goals set forth in our strategic plan.”

In the months leading up to Delaney’s appointment, the district faced widespread scrutiny over the rapid hiring and almost immediate resignation of Dominguez, which sparked controversy in the community regarding the circumstances and substantial payout associated with his departure.  These events left families and staff questioning the district’s decision-making process and the long-term implications of its financial choices. With major construction projects already straining district resources, concerns about fiscal management continued to intensify throughout the summer and early fall.

After the disruption, Delaney’s transition from deputy superintendent to interim leader offered the district a period of relative steadiness. For many, his appointment brings a sense of predictability that was noticeably missing during the rapid turnover of the superintendent’s office.

Among the accomplishments Blair cited were a smooth start to the school year, the rollout of a new strategic plan, and a commitment to serving the district.

“Mr. Delaney made it a point to visit all 23 schools in the first few weeks of the school year to visit with students and staff. He also arranged key meetings with state legislators and local elected officials to ensure they understand the challenges our schools are facing,” said Blair.

Taking on these responsibilities while simultaneously ordering two new Executive Cabinet members and covering gaps left by leadership vacancies, Delaney has outshone expectations in an effort to improve the district.

While it will take time to assess the full impact as Delaney steps into his new role, the selection represents an effort to restore direction and consistency within Francis Howell. His leadership marks a pivotal moment for the district as it works to reestablish a sense of momentum after a turbulent period.

For more information regarding the events leading up to Delaney’s appointment, read our story, Rebuilding Trust, here.