KiLee Lidwell-McFerren was born in Canton, Illinois, and graduated from Canton High School in 1995. She attended Spoon River College, earning an Associate of Arts degree, before transferring to Southern Illinois University, where she completed a Bachelor of Arts degree in Art Education. KiLee later earned a Master of Education in Educational Organization and Leader-ship from the University of Illinois.
She began her career as an art educator, a role she held for 13 years before transitioning into administration as an Assistant Principal. In 2017, KiLee returned to her hometown of Canton to become Principal of Lincoln Elementary School. Her leadership and dedication have earned her notable recognition, including the Canton YWCA Women of Achievement Award (2024) and the Illinois Principals Association Illinois Principal of the Year Award (2025).
In addition to her role as principal, KiLee serves as the CUSD #66 Homeless Liaison, supporting students and families in need.
KiLee holds many fond memories of her time at Spoon River College—creating sets for campus plays, working in the art studios, exhibiting in the annual art show, playing on the SRC softball team, and serving on the President’s Screening Committee as the student representative to the Board of Trustees.
She strives to live by the words of Jane Goodall: “What you do makes a difference, and you have to decide what kind of difference you want to make.”
KiLee is married to Jason McFerren, also an SRC graduate. Together, they have two daughters, Juniper and Linnaea.
