Saint Joseph Catholic School, in Ellinwood, has announced its coming school year will open under the direction of a new principal, Laurie Kolling, who has been teaching at the school these past two years.
Kolling received a Masters of Science, with a focus upon administration, from Fort Hays State University in 2012. She is no stranger to leadership having previously served as Principal/Coordinator of Haskins Learning Center in Pratt and Principal of Eisenhower Elementary School in Great Bend. Her career in teaching began when she graduated from Fort Hays State University in 1984 with a degree in Elementary and Special Education.
Father Terrance Klein, pastor of Saint Joseph Church said, “We are very grateful for the service that Cami Thomas has given our school as both a classroom instructor and a lead teacher. Under her leadership our school received a significant number of grants, and we have been able to add on-campus instruction in music, band, and art. We are happy that she plans to continue her association with us. At the same time, we feel quite blessed that Laurie has agreed to become our principal. She has earned our trust and admiration. She brings with her a wealth of experience and specialized training, and she is a woman of deep faith and Christian commitment. This will be the first time in many years that we have had a principal fully licensed with the State of Kansas on campus.”
This Fall will mark the 140th anniversary of the school’s founding. Saint Joseph Catholic School is the oldest Catholic school in the southwest quadrant of the state.
Father Klein added, “We have a long legacy of education based upon faith, Christian morals, and academic excellence. Laurie will help us ensure that we continue to lead in what we do.”