Phil Collins

Phil Collins is the current Chief Education Officer at Otus. Prior to their current position, Phil was the District Assessment Manager at Arlington Heights School District 25 from July 2001 to June 2002. In this role, Phil coordinated the pilot of the Measures of Academic Progress (MAP) computerized testing system at Westgate Elementary School. Phil also analyzed district assessment data to identify trends and worked with building principals to help them develop their understanding of test data and ways to use it to inform instruction.

From July 2012 to June 2016, Phil was the Superintendent at Morton Grove School District #70. As Superintendent, Phil led implementation of the District Strategic Plan through the development of specific action plans to address identified goals. Phil also built relationships with staff, students, parents, community leaders and legislators; developed and began to implement a curriculum development process and cycle; redefined the math sequence at the middle school level which increased the percentage of students qualifying for geometry or higher placement from 12% to 69%; increased support to teachers through the implementation of a coaching model; increased technology integration through multiple strategies including 1:1 iPad implementation; and coordinated the design and construction of a five classroom addition, remaining under budget.

In addition, Phil developed a plan to finance the five classroom addition which used a combination of fund balance and debt certificates to minimize the impact on taxpayers. Phil also developed and implemented a district communication plan including a community newsletter, redesign of the district website, and incorporation of social media. Furthermore, they increased parent learning opportunities and connections with families with diverse backgrounds; coordinated budget planning to maintain a surplus budget for several years to come; expanded leadership capacity with members of the leadership team and teacher leaders; developed a school-wide approach to behavior; and negotiated a four-year contract with the Park View Council of Teachers.

Phil Collins has a Doctor of Education from Northern Illinois University in Education Administration, as well as a Doctorate in Educational Leadership and Administration, General from the same school. Phil also has a Master of Science from Northern Illinois University in School Business Management; Education, and a Bachelor of Arts from Saint Mary's University of Minnesota in Statistics. Phil Collins is also certified from the Illinois State Board of Education in Superintendent.

Phil Collins works with Keith Westman - Chief Operating Officer, Mariano Gonzalez - Data/Platform Architect, and Brian Raphael - Chief Financial Officer. Phil Collins reports to Chris Hull, Chief Product Officer.