NORWICH – After an extensive interviewing process, the Norwich City School Board of Education announced that Thomas Knapp has been hired as the new high school principal. Knapp, who was hired last September as the school’s athletic director, and has served as interim high school principal for five months, says he is “excited and honored” to accept this position.
Knapp worked in schools in Sidney and Vestal as a physical education teacher and athletic director before becoming an administrator. Although he thought athletics would be his field, he said he believes he has more to offer. District Superintendent Gerard O’Sullivan said the new principal brings real-life abilities to the position.
“He brings a wealth of life experience and he has a great ability to work with the students and staff,” the district head said.
Knapp’s plans for the year include placing the focus on the students more than ever before. He wants to continue offering diverse courses, increase the number of available electives and to see more pep rallies in an attempt to bolster school spirit.
The incoming principal, who will fill the spot vacated by Jack Ross at the end of the last school year, said he hopes to build strong relationships throughout the school. He said he will have an open door policy, and will be accessible to students and staff. “If everyone is safe and happy, then I know I’m doing my job,” Knapp said.
While this position is an exciting change for Knapp, it does present a new problem for his school. His former post – that of athletic director – has changed hands four times in the past six years and will, once again, need to be addressed by the board. O’Sullivan said the search for that person will begin soon.
Despite the vacancy, O’Sullivan remained optimistic about the coming year as a whole and Knapp’s new function in the district.
“This is a great opportunity for the high school to continue the good work Mr. Knapp started last year. We are very enthusiastic about this decision and look forward to great results,” he said.