Richland School District 88A names 2 new principals

Two new administrators have been hired at Richland School District 88A for the 2018 to 2019 school year, the Board of Education announced Thursday.

Jeremy Christian was hired on as junior high principal, and Joseph R. Lindsey Jr. was hired as elementary principal, according to a news release from the district.

Christian most recently served as an assistant principal at Jefferson Junior High in Naperville. He also has administrative and teaching experience in Valley View School District and other high schools in the Chicagoland area.

“I’m beyond ecstatic to join the Richland administrative team," Christian said. "I’m excited to work with our teachers, students and the community to exceed our goals and expectations. I am very grateful to Mr. Simpkins, the Board of Education, and the Richland community for the opportunity to serve our students with high levels of academic instruction, while also enhancing their social/emotional educational experience.”

Lindsey served as the assistant principal and English as a second language director at Richland for the past two years. Prior to that, he worked as a teacher or administrator in West Chicago, Plainfield and other south suburban schools.

"It is an honor and a privilege to be able to continue my service here at Richland," Lindsey said. "We work with some great students, staff and families, and I am really looking forward to learning from them all as we strive to give our kids all the tools they need to be successful. Thank you to Mr. Simpkins and the Board for giving me a shot. I'll do my best to make Richland proud!"

He replaces Kelly Whyte, who will be director of programs for the district.

“We are extremely fortunate to be able to hire both Mr. Christian and Mr. Lindsey for our principal positions," Superintendent Joe Simpkins said. "Each principal brings strong and diverse educational experiences with them, which will make our school district even stronger. Both of these gentlemen are student-centered and bring their passion and enthusiasm to work with them every day.”