New school year is here. Meet the new principals in the Springfield area

With the new school year at hand, several local and area schools have new leadership at the top.

Meet the new principals here.

Grant Middle School

Assistant principal Jordan Joost moves into the principal's role at Grant Middle School.

In an addition to academic success, Joost said she would like students and families who come through Grant to "make memories and experiences that they will remember for a lifetime."

Edwin Lee School

Jason Nikson, the new principal at Edwin Lee School, has 22 years experience in education.

"We will work collaboratively to build relationships with students, families and the community to form a foundation for social, emotion, physical and intellectual growth," Nikson said.

Sandburg Elementary

James Hayes moves into a familiar role as principal at Sandburg Elementary, having served in the same capacity at Harvard Park Elementary for several years.

Hayes said his vision is to give "every student, teacher and family member a world-class educational experience to set them up for future real-life success."

Matheny-Withrow Elementary

Geneka Gully comes to the top spot at Matheny-Withrow Elementary with 18 years of experience in education.

"My vision for Matheny-Withrow is that it becomes a place where all stakeholders are living their dream of education," she said.

Harvard Park Elementary

Simon Wilson moves into the principal's seat at Harvard Park Elementary where he had been an assistant principal under James Hayes.

"One of the things I enjoy most about being a principal," Wilson said, "is the opportunity to make a broad impact on the school community."

Rochester Elementary (2-3)

Randy Krepel the new principal at Rochester Elementary School (Grades 2-3).

Krepel stepped in after five years as an assistant principal at Rochester Intermediate School.

Our Saviour Catholic

After the past 13 years as a second-grade teacher, Amy Evans is the new principal at Our Saviour Catholic in Jacksonville.

Evans also spent part of her career as a special education teacher.

Contact Steven Spearie: 217-622-1788; sspearie@sj-r.com; X, twitter.com/@StevenSpearie.

This article originally appeared on State Journal-Register: New school year is here. Meet the new principals in the Springfield area