ADMINISTRATION

Mr. James Finley, Principal

James L. Finley will assume the duty of principal at West De Pere Middle School beginning July 1, 2005.  Mr. Finley served two years as associate principal and for the past three years has served as the principal of Swallow School, a K-8 facility in Hartland, Wisconsin.  Prior to that, he was a teacher at Swallow School and in Stoughton, Wisconsin.  He obtained his Bachelor degree from the University of Wisconsin - Whitewater, majoring in physical education and health.  In 2001 he received his Masters Degree in Educational Administration from the University of Wisconsin - Madison.  He will soon complete his Educational Specialist Degree from UW-Madison.  He is currently a member of the Association of Wisconsin School Administrators (AWSA), Association of School Curriculum Directors (ASCD), and Kappa Delta Pi Education Honor Society.  Mr. Finley’s main emphasis has been middle level education and thoroughly enjoys working with youth at that level as they transition from elementary to high school.  Superintendent, Dr. Lanny J. Tibaldo states, “We had fifty applicants for the position and were extremely impressed with the candidates we interviewed.  Mr. Finley will be a good fit for West De Pere Middle School because of his experience and dedication to middle level youth and staff, academic programs, staff development, service as ESEA/NCLB coordinator and compliance officer, co-curricular experience, and dedication to educational experiences for children.  He has a passion for middle school children and their entire middle level experience and has developed strong rapport in his present position with students, staff, and the community.  We are looking forward to his leadership in our schools and his involvement in the community.  Jason Zielinski,  Middle School Associate Principal at West De Pere Middle School and Mr. Finley will provide strong leadership for West De Pere Middle School.”

Mr. Finley and his wife, Kristin, relocated to West De Pere with their son Gabe (age 3), and daughter Ellie (age 1). Mr. Finley began his new position July 1, 2005.