Joliet Township High School Announces Shad Hallihan as Next Principal of Joliet Central High School

Joliet Township High School is proud to announce that Shad Hallihan will serve as the next principal of Joliet Central High School, effective July 1, 2015. He will replace John Randich, the current Joliet Central principal, who is retiring after 34 years of service to Joliet Township High School.

Hallihan brings a wealth of knowledge to the principal position and holds 19 years of experience at Joliet Township High School. He began his career as an English teacher at Joliet Central High School in 1995, moved to District Assistant Athletic Director in 2001 and Joliet West High School Division Chairperson in 2004. He became the Joliet West High School Freshman Academy Coordinator in 2005 before moving to his current position of Joliet West High School Assistant Principal in 2007.

Hallihan’s leadership at Joliet Township High School was instrumental in the implementation and planning of the district’s 1:1 computing initiative, academy structure and the New Teacher Orientation Program. He has worked with staff, deans, and security professionals to foster a positive school climate and safe learning environment.

The principal selection process included interviews conducted by a panel of community, parent, student, teacher, Board of Education and administrator representatives. Prior to the interviews, the panel examined and discussed the qualities of an effective principal for Joliet Central High School and developed interview questions to reflect these qualities. “Joliet Central High School is a special place with a strong history of excellence,” said Joliet Township High School Superintendent Dr. Cheryl McCarthy. “Shad has a wealth of leadership experience and holds a great understanding of our parents, students and community. I have no doubt that he will continue the quality leadership that Principal Randich has demonstrated over the years.”

Hallihan is looking forward to applying his leadership skills and vast experience in a new capacity. “I’m honored to be given this opportunity,” said Hallihan. “Joliet Central is a special place with a rich tradition, and I look forward to working with the Steelmen students, families and staff.”

Over the next few months Randich and Hallihan will work together to implement a comprehensive transition plan.

“I’m proud of where our district is headed and of what Principal Randich has accomplished at Joliet Central,” said Hallihan. “I’m excited about taking on the challenge of making sure that all of our students are given the opportunities and resources they need to be successful.”