Chris McKnight starts in August

QUINCY — Chris McKnight has been named the new principal of Quincy High School following Wednesday's meeting of the Quincy School District Board which approved his hire.

In a phone interview following the meeting, superintendent Roger Fox said the district has already finished a background check on McKnight who has worked as the assistant principal at the high school for the past year and a half.

"We went through an extensive interview process and he displayed the best vision and team building and leadership skills," Fox said.

McKnight replaces Jack Peasley, who was placed on paid administrative leave in February following an investigation into his conduct during school hours with QHS teacher Rachel Bergman, who was also placed on paid administrative leave.

"During this difficult time that we're going through he stepped up to the plate," Fox said of McKnight. "He's a real people person. At the same time, he can show leadership and give guidance to others as well."

McKnight declined to comment on his new appointment.

The Quincy School District hopes to finish replacing the windows broken at Quincy Junior High School today following a burglary at the school on April 2. Fox did not have an exact dollar amount for the extensive damage done during the break-in in which both electrical equipment and personal property belonging to school staff was stolen.

Quincy Police Department officials could not comment further on the case. No arrests had been made as of press time.

"I know they've got some good leads," Fox said of the ongoing investigation.