Husband and wife hired as Streator elementary principals

A husband and wife have taken principal positions at two Streator schools.

Bob and Heather Ketcham have been hired to lead Northlawn Junior High and Kimes Elementary School respectively.

Northlawn Principal Gail Russell and Kimes Principal Laura Dawson are retiring. The Ketchams will start July 1.

Bob has most recently been the principal at Jefferson Middle School in Springfield, while Heather comes from Hickory Grove Elementary in Dunlap.

This is Heather’s first job as a principal, but she has worked in education for 21 years.

“Heather Ketcham has a passion for the preschool through first-grade level with experience at both kindergarten and first grade, and she has a focus on building strong relationships with students and staff,” said Streator Elementary District Superintendent Lisa Parker.

Bob has experience teaching physical education and he has also served as an assistant principal, athletic director and principal at prior schools.

“Bob Ketcham brings with him a vast amount of experience in administration at the junior high level with high expectations of both students and staff and a focus on creating a climate of belonging at the middle school level,” Parker said.

“My wife and I are looking forward to becoming part of the Streator Elementary District,” Bob said in a statement. “I look forward to working with staff members to create a positive learning experience for all the kids.”