Marissa Draney | Germantown Hills, Illinois

A graduate from Northern Illinois with a BS in Early Childhood Education, Marissa Draney grew up in Rockford, IL, where she taught for three years before getting married and moving to Peoria. After 12 years of teaching at Peoria Academy, she transitioned to her current role as principal.

Marissa is a third-generation educator, following her mother and grandmother as teachers, and her grandfather as an elementary school principal. During her time as Lower School Coordinator, Draney played a key role in helping Peoria Academy achieve accreditation as an International Baccalaureate school. As principal, she supports the teachers and students, fostering growth and success for the individual students as well as helping grow overall enrollment. Brandon Jordan, Peoria Academy’s Director of Community Engagement writes, “Marissa leads by example, she is calm under pressure, listens attentively, and before responding to situations, she takes thoughtful measures to prepare beforehand. Her leadership exudes kindness and compassion, making individuals feel heard and respected. People in our community, from teachers to parents to board members, trust her.”

In addition to training the next generation, Marissa Draney also serves on the board of GlobalFest Central Illinois. According to their website, GlobalFest celebrates diversity, “through exposure to the amazing international cultures that have made their home in Central Illinois!” In 2024, the organization awarded two study-abroad scholarships. “Her leadership in this capacity,” writes Jordan, “has helped bridge cultural divides and fostered greater unity and inclusivity within Peoria Academy and within our region.”

Draney lives in Germantown Hills with her husband and their Boxer, Ava. She loves her home in central Illinois for its “small-town atmosphere with great outdoor spaces, farmers markets, hiking trails, and an array of local flavors.” She enjoys hiking, traveling and camping, and advises others to travel as much as they can.