New principal for Oregon High School

A Freeport native is the new principal at Oregon High School.

The school board hired Dr. Heidi Deininger Monday evening to replace current OHS Principal Andrew Nelson, who is returning to the classroom after five years as principal.

Nelson will teach eighth grade English at DL Rahn Junior High this fall.

Superintendent Tom Mahoney said he is pleased with the board’s action.

“Dr. Deininger brings an impressive skill set, working with a diverse student population and helping them become successful,” he said. “We welcome these skills and any innovation that she brings with her to our district.”

Deininger is currently a special education administrator for Rockford Public Schools.

She has previously served as Executive director of College & Career Readiness for Rockford Public Schools, principal at Roosevelt High School in Rockford, assistant principal at Belvidere High School and in administration for the Winnebago County Special Education Cooperative.

She was named 2015 Golden Apple Principal of the Year for northern Illinois.

“I love being an educator,” Deininger said in her statement to school officials. “I believe that we have the ability to impact every life, every day. I know students bring many beliefs, challenges and strengths to school. Our job, as educators, is to know them, encourage them and inspire them to be the very best they can be and somehow leave their mark on their world.”

Deininger has three children and enjoys running, reading, working at her family’s business, and watching her children participate in sports.