New Principal Chosen For Old Quarry Middle School

LEMONT, IL — The Lemont-Bromberek Combined School District 113A Board of Education has named a new principal for Old Quarry Middle School. Joseph Sweeney, who is currently assistant principal at Crone Middle School in Indian Prairie School District 204, will assume the Old Quarry principal position on July 1.

The district said Sweeney holds a Master of Arts degree in Educational Leadership from Aurora University and earned his Bachelor of Arts degree in Business Education. Sweeney has experience as an assistant principal, Dean of Students and teacher.

“As the new principal of Old Quarry Middle School, I am incredibly excited to join a team of experienced, talented and dedicated educators. As a staff, we will continue to inspire students
to be lifelong learners and positive members of the community. In preparation for the 2019-2020 school year, I am eager to meet students and their families and am very proud to officially say this: “Every day is a GREAT day to be a Warrior!” Sweeney said.

The Board of Education approved the appointment of Sweeney on May 15. The district said there was an extensive search process including a candidate pool of over 60 applicants and multiple rounds of interviews with district administrators, Old Quarry staff, parents, students and the Board of Education.

“Mr. Sweeney will bring a wealth of experience to the principalship in a variety of areas. He is student-centered, a strong communicator, and he understands the value of building relationships and community at the middle school level," Superintendent Dr. Courtney Orzel said.

During the interview process, staff described Mr. Sweeney as “dynamic, energetic, and ambitious,” as well as “a go getter, a problem-solver, someone with clear vision, and the perfect fit for Old Quarry.” Parents commented that he is “approachable, a good listener and has a strong belief about middle school years and creating a great experience for students.” Students described him as a “positive, confident, high energy principal” who would “be a beam of hope, Warrior pride and happiness.”

The district will host a meet and greet opportunity for parents and staff to meet Sweeney this summer.