Airline School offers job to Holbrook principal

AURORA – Ralph Russell, who has been offered a job as part-time principal for Airline Community School, was introduced to the school board Wednesday.

Russell, who is retiring as principal for Holbrook Middle School this year after 40 years of service in the area, said he was nominated for the position during the meeting. He started his career in education in 1964 as a teaching principal for Holden School and later became principal at Holbrook when SAD 63 was created.

During a phone interview on Thursday, Russell said, “I’m waiting to see the contract” before accepting the position.

If Russell takes the job, which he said is likely, he will replace Andy Bryan, who has worked as part-time principal and teacher for several years. According to Superintendent Louise Regan, Bryan has 17 years of service with the school.

“I’m thrilled,” she said. “Both that we’re going to be keeping a wonderful person who’s been there a long time and that Ralph has agreed to this position because he has lots of experience. He’s very children orientated and he’s very community oriented and will work well with parents and the board.”

Russell and Bryan, in their administrative duties, have already worked together for five years, Regan said.

“I think this going to be a very successful team,” she said.

If Russell accepts the position, he will start his new job on July 1, which is also the day Bryan’s contract as part-time principal is up.