Urbana High School Executive and Leadership Team

May, 2026

Leadership Overview

Urbana High School has 4 executives leading key functions including technology, governance, and community initiatives.

Driven by a commitment to student success, Urbana High School fosters a collaborative educational environment, emphasizing community engagement and preparing students for future leadership through diverse programs and academic support.

Leadership Roles at Urbana High School

  • President - Paul Poulosky
  • District 3 President - Christi Fernsberg
  • President, Care Crafts Project, Urbana Chapter - Blen Ashenafi
  • Chief Information Officer - John Gutzmer
  • Paul Poulosky - President

    Paul Poulosky, the President at Urbana High School, leads the strategic direction and overall governance of the educational institution. Poulosky's executive oversight ensures alignment with the Urbana School District 116's mission to foster a collaborative educational environment and prioritize student success. This leadership position involves guiding the district's commitment to community engagement and the development of comprehensive programs, including multilingual education and special education. Paul Poulosky works to enhance the resources available for families and students in the Urbana area, focusing on registration, health services, and academic support. The President's role is critical in championing equity and preparing students for future leadership roles, ensuring that Urbana High School remains at the forefront of educational excellence. Poulosky's influence shapes the district's long-term vision and operational effectiveness.

    Christi Fernsberg - District 3 President

    Christi Fernsberg, the District 3 President at Urbana High School, spearheads initiatives specific to the operational and community engagement goals within District 3. Fernsberg's leadership focuses on strengthening the collaborative educational environment and advancing student success across the designated areas of Urbana School District 116. This role involves direct engagement with local stakeholders to ensure community needs are met, supporting the district's diverse offerings such as multilingual education and extracurricular activities. Christi Fernsberg champions the district's commitment to equity and future readiness, ensuring students receive robust academic support and access to vital health services. By fostering strong local connections, Fernsberg contributes significantly to the district's objective of preparing all students for successful futures. The District 3 President's efforts are integral to localized student support and program implementation.

    Blen Ashenafi - President, Care Crafts Project, Urbana Chapter

    Blen Ashenafi, the President, Care Crafts Project, Urbana Chapter at Urbana High School, directs specialized community-focused initiatives that enhance student development and engagement. Ashenafi's leadership cultivates a hands-on learning environment, integrating practical skills through projects like culinary arts and crafts, thereby supporting the Urbana School District 116's broader educational mission. This role emphasizes community involvement and student success by providing unique extracurricular opportunities that complement academic learning. Blen Ashenafi works to foster a sense of responsibility and creativity among students, aligning project outcomes with the district's goal of preparing individuals for future leadership and diverse career paths. The President's dedication to the Care Crafts Project ensures students gain valuable experiences beyond traditional classroom settings, reinforcing the district's commitment to holistic student development in Urbana.

    John Gutzmer - Chief Information Officer

    John Gutzmer, the Chief Information Officer at Urbana High School, directs the district's technology infrastructure and digital strategy. Overseeing all IT operations, Gutzmer ensures the seamless integration of educational technology across the Urbana School District 116. This leadership role involves managing network security, data management, and the implementation of new software solutions that support multilingual education, special education, and administrative functions. By optimizing technological resources, John Gutzmer enhances the learning environment and supports student success in the Urbana area. The Chief Information Officer's responsibilities extend to providing technical support for staff and students, ensuring equitable access to digital tools, and aligning technology initiatives with the district's overarching mission of preparing students for a successful future. Gutzmer's strategic vision drives innovation in educational delivery.
    John Gutzmer

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Urbana High School Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Urbana High School?
    Urbana High School is led by Paul Poulosky (President), along with executives such as Christi Fernsberg (District 3 President) and Blen Ashenafi (President, Care Crafts Project, Urbana Chapter).
    Who is part of Urbana High School’s executive team?
    The executive team of Urbana High School includes leaders such as Paul Poulosky (President), Christi Fernsberg (District 3 President), Blen Ashenafi (President, Care Crafts Project, Urbana Chapter) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Urbana High School have?
    Urbana High School has 4 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Urbana High School’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Urbana High School includes roles such as President, District 3 President, President, Care Crafts Project, Urbana Chapter, Chief Information Officer.