Schools
CMS to Welcome New Principal for New School Year
Dr. James Clarke will begin his role as CMS Principal on July 1
On July 1, Central Middle School will have a new principal when Dr. James Clarke takes the helm. The Board of Education ratified Dr. Clarke’s contract at its meeting on April 11.
“I would like to thank Dr. Stawick and the Board of Education for welcoming me to District 146,” said Dr. Clarke. “I am honored to have the opportunity to lead a school with such persevering students, an extremely dedicated staff, and a supportive school community. I look forward to joining the Central team where I can continue my history of using collaborative approaches to ensure that each student experiences academic and social and emotional growth.”
Dr. Clarke has 20 years of experience in public education, with the last 12 years being in leadership roles. He has served in assistant principal and principal positions at schools in Chicago, Berwyn, and Zion.
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In 2019, Dr. Clarke received his doctoral degree in urban school leadership from the University of Illinois-Chicago. He also has his master’s degree in secondary education and his bachelor’s degree in business administration.
“Prior to interviewing for this position, I met with students, parents, staff, and Board members to develop a principal profile,” said Dr. Jeff Stawick, District 146 Superintendent. “Dr. Clarke fits this profile and I know he will be a great addition to CMS. I look forward him joining the District 146 family in July.”
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Earlier in April, Dr. Clarke had an opportunity to visit Central. He welcomed students and parents during drop off, was given a tour of the campus, met with the group of students who helped develop the principal profile, had lunch with staff, and spoke with the current administration.
Families will get an additional opportunity to meet Dr. Clarke on Wednesday, May 11. Prior to the CMS Choir Concert, a reception will be held in the cafetorium from 5 – 5:45 p.m.
Dr. Clarke lives in Downers Grove with his wife, Bridget, and their two children, Andrew and Audrey.
Community Consolidated School District 146 is comprised of Central Middle School, Fierke Education Center, Fulton School, Kruse Education Center, and Memorial School. Students from Tinley Park, Orland Park, and Oak Forest attend District 146 schools.
