Deve Demler, Regional Superintendent of Schools for ROE26
The Regional Office of Education #26 (ROE26) today announced a leadership transition that will continue the organization’s long-standing mission of supporting schools, educators, and students across west-central Illinois.
John Meixner is retiring as Regional Superintendent of the four-county Regional Office of Education #26 as of Wednesday, April 1, after 20 years of dedicated service to supporting student learning through the regional office. He joined as Assistant Regional Superintendent in 2006, was appointed as Regional Superintendent in 2008 2009, and then elected to that role in 2010.
Dave Demler takes over as Regional Superintendent replacing Meixner. He has served as Assistant Regional Superintendent for ROE26 since January 2015, which came after ROE26 merged with neighboring ROE No. 22 under state consolidation of regional offices of education. Hancock, McDonough, Fulton, and Schuyler counties combined that year into the new ROE26.
Scott Sullivan, ROE26 Director of Services, now takes over as Assistant Regional Superintendent.
Meixner and Demler agreed the April 1 timing of the transition made sense for the office as the school year winds down. Meixner had decided not to run for re-election in November 2026 and will continue in a support role for the office.
They credited a healthy, vibrant workplace culture with now more than 90 employees as they work to build on growing momentum to help schools support student achievement throughout the region.
A Career Defined by Service, Leadership, and Community
Meixner has served as the elected chief executive officer of ROE26 for more than 15 years, guiding the organization with a mission to “Champion Our Community.” Over that time, he has been re-elected multiple times, most recently in 2022, reflecting the trust placed in his leadership by the region’s voters.
A lifelong fifty plus year resident of McDonough County, Meixner’s connection to the community runs deep. A graduate of Macomb High School, attended Spoon River College, and Western Illinois University, he earned both his Bachelor of Science in Physical Education and Master of Science in Educational Leadership from WIU. His passion for education began early through coaching and teaching roles in local school districts, including Industry CUSD and Southeastern School District, where he served as a teacher, coach, athletic director, and junior high dean of students.
“It has been the honor of my career to serve the students, educators, and families of this region,” Meixner said. “From my earliest days as a teacher and coach to my time as Regional Superintendent, I have always believed in the power of education to change lives. I am incredibly proud of the team we have built at ROE26 and the impact we have made together.”
During his tenure, Meixner successfully led the 2015 consolidation of two regional offices into what is now ROE26, creating a unified structure serving Fulton, Hancock, McDonough, and Schuyler counties. Under his leadership, the office expanded services in early childhood education, alternative learning, family support, and workforce development, while continuing to fulfill its regulatory and support role for local school districts.
Meixner has also been an active leader at the state level, serving as Treasurer of the Illinois Association of Regional Superintendents of Schools (IARSS) and contributing to numerous state committees, task forces, and commissions focused on education policy and student success.
Beyond his professional role, he has remained deeply engaged in the community through organizations including the WIU Performing Arts Society, WIU Alumni Council, Macomb Lions Club, Macomb Elks Lodge, Macomb Area Chamber of Commerce, and multiple youth and workforce development initiatives.
“Our work has always been about people — building relationships, supporting educators, and helping students find their path,” Meixner said. “That mission will continue long after my retirement, and I know the office is in great hands moving forward.”
Demler to Lead Next Chapter with Continuity and Focus
Demler brings more than two decades of experience in education and regional leadership to his new role. A Fulton County native raised in Cuba, Illinois, he is a graduate of Cuba High School and earned his undergraduate degree from Eastern Illinois University and a Master’s in Educational Leadership from Western Illinois University.
He began his career in education in 2000 in Colchester and continued through the West Prairie consolidation before joining the Regional Office of Education in 2010. He has served as Assistant Regional Superintendent since 2015, working closely with Meixner to guide the office through its consolidation and continued growth.
“My focus is to ensure a smooth transition and continue the strong foundation John and our team have built,” Demler said. “We have an outstanding staff and a culture of professionalism that serves our schools well, and I am committed to maintaining that standard.”
Demler said his priorities moving forward will include maintaining a strong financial footing for the office, improving internal efficiency to better serve school districts, and continuing to invest in staff development.
“We will continue to be a reliable partner for our districts and communities,” Demler said. “That means being fiscally responsible, operating efficiently, and supporting the professional growth of our team so we can deliver the highest level of service possible.”
Continuing a Strong Tradition
ROE26 leaders said the transition reflects both a celebration of Meixner’s legacy and a commitment to continued progress.
With Demler stepping into the superintendent role and Sullivan moving into the assistant superintendent position, the organization is well-positioned to build on its momentum while continuing to expand services that support students, families, and educators.
“John’s leadership has helped shape ROE26 into a trusted and respected organization across west-central Illinois,” Demler said. “We are grateful for his years of service and look forward to continuing the work of championing our community and supporting the success of every student.”
The Regional Office of Education #26 serves school districts across Fulton, Hancock, McDonough, and Schuyler counties, providing leadership, services, and support for schools, educators, and families throughout the region.
For more information, visit https://www.roe26.net/