New Principal Takes Reins at Palatine High

PALATINE, IL — Palatine High School got a new principal at the end of last school year. Tony Medina was picked to take the place of Gary Steiger, who retired at the end of last school year, and started in his new role in April, according to District 211 officials.

Medina will begin his first full school year at Palatine High in the coming weeks when students retrun to classes.

Medina most recently served as the assistant principal at the high school and before that, was the world language department chair at Fremd High School.

He first started his career with District 2011 in 2006 as a world language teacher, school officials said.

“Gary Steiger’s impact on Palatine High School and District 211 has simply been remarkable. Among Gary’s many contributions is his preparation of the next generation of leaders, and we are grateful for the indelible impact that he has generated,” District Superintendent Dan Cates said. “Tony Medina has been a strong leader and a passionate advocate for students throughout his career in District 211. "

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Cates added that Medina has a "recognizable strength for bringing people together to accomplish a shared purpose." This has lead to curricular improvements while he was a teacher and department chair, student character development as a coach, and creative community collaboration as an administrator.

"We are excited for the vision, enthusiasm and determination that Mr. Medina will bring to our students, staff members, and parents of the Palatine High School community," Cates said.

Medina was appointed to his new position as principal last fall and started in the role after spring break last school year, school officials said.