(NEW CARLISLE, IN) -  School board members wasted no time naming a new high school principal following the sudden departure of JR Shelt.

 

On Monday night, the board voted unanimously to appoint Justin Heinold to lead the high school.  Heinold has been principal at Prairie View Elementary School since August of 2021, having prior served as assistant principal of New Prairie Middle School for four years.

 

Previously a science teacher, Heinold studied at the University of Indianapolis and earned a Master’s Degree in school administration from Ball State. He graduated from La Porte High School as Valedictorian of his class in 2006.

 

In a statement released following Monday’s meeting, school board members praised Heinold “for his infectious positive attitude, attention to student learning, and ability to collaborate with all stakeholders to find positive results for students.”

 

Heinold expressed his excitement to move up the leadership ladder.

 

“I am thrilled and humbled to be serving as the next Principal of New Prairie High School!” he said. “Having served in the district for the past six years, I already know that I am joining a school with an excellent tradition, and we will continue to work together to serve the students and the families of the community to the best of our abilities."

 

Previous principal JR Shelt, who served less than a year, resigned to take a similar position at a high school in Indianapolis, which he began on Monday.

 

Heinold, who was given a two-year contract, will not assume his new role until July.

 

New Prairie wraps up its current school year this week.