CHITTENDEN—The Barstow School Board announced the appointment of David St. Germain as the next principal of Barstow Memorial School, on Monday, May 11.
St. Germain, a local resident, will begin his new position on July 1, 2020.
Having earned a doctorate of education in administrative leadership for teaching and learning from Walden University, Dr. St. Germain comes with many years of experience. He has served as a teacher for several years, assistant principal of a junior-senior high school, principal of two elementary schools, principal of a K-12 for four years and a Pre-K-6 for 12 years. Most recently he has served in higher education at College of St. Joseph as division chair of education and at North Country Community College.
The principal search had 23 applications and 13 were reviewed by the search advisory committee led by Superintendent Jeanné Collins along with teacher, staff and parent representation. Four candidates were interviewed and two strong finalists were introduced to the community in a virtual forum attended by 55 community members. St. Germain was chosen for his depth of experience, clear vision and calm manner, and his leadership experiences that fit the Barstow school community need.
“I am pleased to bring David on board to lead Barstow Memorial School. I feel his experiences and leadership style are a good fit for Barstow at this time, and that belief is backed by the support of the search advisory committee. We will miss Bianca McKeen, who has done a fine job and is returning to Rutland City for her next leadership position,” said Collins.
St. Germain reflected on his new new post, saying: “From my earliest days of teaching at the College of St. Joseph, I heard about the great things occurring at Barstow Memorial School. The more I interacted with the teachers and parents at the school, the more I understood how special a place it is. I am eager to begin as the next principal.
