Justin McIntosh

Principal, West Aurora School District 129

Justin McIntosh is from Yorkville, Illinois, and serves as a Principal in West Aurora School District 129. He earned a Bachelor of Science in Child and Family Studies from Eastern Kentucky University and a Master of Arts in Educational Leadership from George Washington University. His research focuses on teacher recruitment and retention, with particular interest in how school leaders influence these challenges. He is passionate about examining the intersection of leadership practices, school climate, and workforce stability in P–12 settings to inform strategies that support sustainable staffing and positive student outcomes. Justin chose the University of Kentucky for its strong academic reputation, supportive faculty, and flexible structure for distance learners. The university also holds personal significance for him—it’s where he met his wife through the Wildcat Marching Band—making his return to UK for doctoral study feel like both a professional advancement and a meaningful homecoming. In his free time, Justin enjoys reading, playing board games, and showing off his trivia skills. He values quality time with his family and is known for his spirited involvement as a principal, frequently participating in dunk tanks, themed dress-up days, and student-staff basketball games to foster connection and community.