Dear Heineman families,
We are excited to introduce Andrew Gibbs as the new principal of Heineman Middle School, effective for the 2023-24 school year. After a thorough search process which yielded several strong, qualified candidates, we are excited to announce that Mr. Gibbs will be joining the HMS and Huntley 158 community.
The District recommended Mr. Gibbs to the Board of Education, and his hiring was approved at last night’s Board of Education meeting. Mr. Gibbs will replace Stephanie Mitchell, who will be transitioning to an assistant principal role at Leggee Elementary School at the start of next school year, as previously communicated.
Mr. Gibbs has previously served as the principal of Three Oaks Elementary School in Cary School District 26 for five years. In this role, he has developed collaborative relationships with parents and community members, worked to improve student behavioral outcomes through PBIS, and strengthened professional development opportunities in math, reading and other areas. Prior to his position at Three Oaks Elementary School, Mr. Gibbs has gained experience as an assistant principal and has also served as principal of Blackberry Creek Elementary School in Kaneland School District 302.
In addition to his experience as a building leader, Mr. Gibbs has amassed over 12 years of experience working with students in the classroom. Since beginning his career in 1997, Mr. Gibbs has taught elementary school, middle school and has served as a middle school dean of students. It is this rich educational background that has provided Mr. Gibbs with a lifelong love of learning, in addition to an understanding of how the roles of staff, students and families intertwine to foster a successful school community.
As a resident of Huntley, Mr. Gibbs offers a strong connection and sense of pride in our surrounding community. We are confident he will lead Heineman with the best interests of our students, staff and community at the forefront of his work. We are also immensely thankful to the search committee and to all members of the staff who have worked to support this search process.
Mr. Gibbs, current principal Mrs. Mitchell, and HMS’ administrative team will collaborate over the coming weeks to ensure a smooth and positive transition as we prepare to welcome our students for the start of the 2023-24 school year.
Please join me in welcoming Mr. Gibbs to the Huntley 158 and Heineman family!
Sincerely,
Scott Rowe, Ed.D.
Superintendent
Jessica Lombard, Ed.S.
2023-24 Interim Superintendent
