New Principal, Assistant Principal named at Oak Grove Elementary

Oak Grove Elementary School officially has a new principal.

On Wednesday, Assistant Principal Tonya Faulkner was promoted to principal, replacing former Principal Regina Paul who will now work at the Whitley County Board of Education as the Gifted and Talented Coordinator and Director of Public Relations.

Faulkner has been interim principal at Oak Grove Elementary since July 1. She served as assistant to Paul for six years.

Faulkner is a Whitley County High School graduate and began her career as a kindergarten teacher at Oak Grove Elementary in 2000.

"Mrs. Faulkner is an exceptional supervisor. She has effectively supervised both novice and experienced teachers. Additionally, she has promoted teacher collaboration and reflection related to best instructional practices. She has had a key role in creating direction for the school," said Regina Paul.

Whitley County Schools Superintendent praised the selection of Faulkner.

"Mrs. Faulkner has been an active contributor to the leadership activities that guide both school and district level improvement processes. She sets a bar for high expectations and a commitment to the success of every child."

"I am grateful to have the opportunity to serve the students, parents and teachers of the Oak Grove community in this new capacity," Faulkner said. "I look forward to working closely with the many people involved in each child’s life to create a successful and rewarding experience for each student."

Faulkner officially began her new job July 21.

Replacing her as Assistant Principal is Steve Powers, who previously served as Principal at the Whitley County Alternative School for the past 14 years.