Joliet Principal Named For Restructured St. Paul, St. Jude Schools

JOLIET, IL — The Diocese of Joliet announced on Monday that Bob Tyrell will serve as the first principal of the newly formed Catholic school in Joliet. Tyrell will begin his new role on July 1,and the new school is being formed as the result of the targeted restructuring closings of the St. Jude and St. Paul the Apostle parishes and schools.

“I never imagined my educational journey would lead me back to this kind of opportunity,” Tyrell said in the Diocese of Joliet press release. “There are so many great families who want their children to have an excellent education that is steeped in Catholic traditions. This is an exciting moment in our history as we chart a path forward.”

The new school will be at 130 Woodlawn Avenue in Joliet and it will open its doors with a new name in August. The official name of the newly formed parish and school will be announced soon, the Diocese shared.

An experienced educator and Joliet native, Tyrell is passionate about Catholic education and will bring 38 years of experience to this new role. He serves as principal at St. Jude School in Joliet, where he also graduated. Prior to St. Jude, he served in multiple leadership and teaching roles at Minooka Community High School.

Also, Father Michael Lane will lead the new parish and school and he is thrilled that Tyrell will serve in this role. “Bob’s experience, along with his steady presence, calm demeanor and unwavering commitment to Catholic education, will be an asset to the new school community,” Lane remarked in Monday's press statement.

Applications for admissions to the new school are open. Questions about the application process may be sent to NJCS@dioseceofJoliet.org.