New principal named at Lyons Township High School

The Lyons Township High School Board of Education on April 19 introduced Jennifer Tyrrell as the new principal at Lyons Township High School.

Tyrrell will begin in the 2021-22 school year and will replace Brian Waterman, who is replacing retiring Superintendent Tim Kilrea.

Tyrrell began her career in education in 2005 as a physical education teacher at Amos Alonzo Stagg High School. In 2009, she served as division chair for physical education at Stagg High School for five years and then as associate principal for curriculum and instruction for four years. She currently is the principal at Carl Sandburg High School in Orland Park, a position she has held for the past three years.

“I am eager to join Lyons Township High School, and it will be my priority to co-create a dynamic student experience,” Tyrrell said in a statement. “I will be relentless in creating an inclusive school culture in which every student feels a sense of belonging that creates the conditions for achievement within all areas of the high school experience.

“The best principals put their heart and soul into creating an elite school culture and climate and being present and visible within the school community. The best principals are not just school and district leaders but truly are community leaders. I intend to be that leader.”

Waterman said he looks forward to the leadership Tyrrell will bring to the school.

“Dr. Tyrrell will bring collaborative, improvement-focused and student-centered leadership to LT,” he said in a statement. “Her vast experience as a classroom teacher, division chair, associate principal and principal will help make for a smooth transition. She knows the power and importance of student voice, and I look forward to seeing her empower our student body to be leaders in our school and community.”

The pool for the position was narrowed from 40 applicants to seven candidates who were interviewed to three finalists.

“I look forward to working with Dr. Tyrrell. She comes highly recommended and is known for her insightful contributions and data-based problem-solving skills. She works tirelessly to develop genuine rapport with students, staff and parents,,” Waterman said.

Tyrrell received a bachelor’s degree in physical education and master’s degree in sports management, both from Western Illinois University, a certificate of advanced study in educational leadership from Lewis University and a doctoral degree in administration and supervision from Loyola University-Chicago. Her doctoral dissertation is titled “Best Leadership Practices and Actions for Leading a Transition in Curriculum Framework in Secondary Schools.”

Tyrrell signed a one-year contract with a salary of $170,000.