St. Edward School in Chillicothe has a new principal for the 2010-11 school year, and he is looking forward to the challenge of continuing to “move the school in the right direction.”
Former Richwoods High School principal John Meisinger, who retired from the high school in May 2008, was offered the position by the Catholic Diocese of Peoria following several openings for school administrative positions in area parochial schools.
Former St. Edward principal Jeannine McAllister retired in the spring.
Meisinger, a Peoria resident with more than 30 years in school administration said that while he worked as principal for Rolling Acres school in Peoria for many years, the move to St. Edward grade school is an exciting one because it will be the first time he has had the opportunity to work with children in the preschool and fourth grade range.
It will also be an opportunity to combine education and faith: Meisinger and his family are members of St. Thomas Parish in Peoria Heights.
“I’m looking forward to working with the children,” Meisinger said, describing his new position as “a unique opportunity” for him.
Getting into the daily routine of the school year is Meisinger’s No. 1 priority at the moment.
Classes at the local Catholic school began Monday.
The new principal said before making concrete plans for how best to improve upon St. Edward, it is important to see how things run first.
“I don’t know what’s here yet,” Meisinger said.
Nevertheless, Meisinger is grateful for the opportunity and looks forward to the challenges his new position will bring.
He is also thankful for the support of those close to him.
“I have a wonderful family who support me in everything,” Meisinger said.
