Haggett hired as new PRLHS principal

PRIEST RIVER — Priest River Lamanna Jr./Sr. High School has a new principal.

Vanessa Haggett was unanimously approved as the new principal by West Bonner County School District trustees at a special board meeting Wednesday.

The board accept Superintendent Kim Spacek's recommendation to hire the longtime educator who has most recently worked as principal of the Eagle Cap Innovative High School and Baker Virtual Academy in Baker City, Ore.

Haggett brings 18 years of experience as an educator, having taught a variety of levels from fourth through 12th grade in a wide range of subjects, from science and yearbook to physical education and culinary arts.

"Her diverse background in education is matched by her passion for student engagement and school improvement," Spacek said in a press release posted to the district's Facebook page.

Among the items that impressed the hiring committee was Haggett's transformation of a struggling alternative high school into a thriving "educational choice" with a waiting list. Haggett was able to increase course offerings, improve attendance and graduation rates and introduce Sources of Strength, a program that supports student mental health by building on existing strengths like positive relationships and healthy habits.

"Vanessa is deeply committed to fostering inclusive and respectful learning environments, and she has a strong track record of working with local community partners to celebrate student success and support families," Spacek said. "We are excited to have her join us and look forward to the leadership and innovation she will bring."

Haggett will be placed on the district's salary schedule based on her experience and degree credits. A timeline will be created to submit her Idaho certification with an administrative endorsement in the near future, Spacek told the board.

Kendra Salesky, West Bonner business director, said Haggett's salary is comparable to what Matt George, the previous PRLHS principal, was paid and falls within the district's existing budget.

Interviews of the four finalists selected for interviews and a series of community forums were held Monday, June 23. Those selected for interviews were Haggett, Shane Johnston, Tommy Hansen and Kelli Hudson.

Among the questions asked each of the candidates were how they would create positive change in the district, strategies to boost academic improvement in West Bonner and how they would keep parents and students aware of what is going on at the junior/senior high school. 

Candidates were also asked to give a specific example of a challenging situation involving parents and students — and how they resolved it. In addition, the four candidates were asked why they applied for the position, what they found inviting about being principal at Priest River Lamanna and what they hoped to accomplish in the position over the next five years.