Naples High will see new administrative changes once again in the 2022-23 school year as Principal Ellen Keegan will be leaving NHS.
Collier County Public Schools (CCPS) chose Keegan to become the principal of the new high school opening in North Naples, GGG High School. Her first year will consist of administrative planning and hiring staff to help prepare for the school’s opening in 2023.
Serving as Naples High’s principal for only a year, Keegan hoped she could have continued meeting the needs of NHS students for longer. Even though adapting to a new school environment can be challenging for many, Keegan had started to build meaningful connections with the school community and would have enjoyed strengthening these relationships further.
“I really wish I could have stayed at Naples for more than one year,” Keegan said. “I was just starting to really get to know the staff, students and families and feel I could have continued to build on the great things that are happening here.”
As she gets ready to start her new job this school year, she hopes students will continue to put forth the effort, resilience and determination that have helped the Golden Eagles reach so many successes this year.
“We had a great year in and out of the classroom, and although I will not be here next year, I have no doubt that will continue!” Keegan said. “Naples is a wonderful, unique school and you need to take advantage of the opportunities that are offered. Get involved and make connections!”
New Principal: Kristina Lee
Taking Keegan’s place will be Gulfview Middle School’s principal, Kristina Lee. For the past several years, she worked to make Gulfview a welcoming school for all students and built a community of support.
Having taught math at the middle and high school levels prior to becoming an administrator, education has been an outlet for her to channel passion into positive change.
“The most rewarding part of being an educator is being a part of something so meaningful as making a positive difference in the lives of those around you,” Lee said.
Lee feels great respect for Naples High and its traditions, and she is looking forward to embracing the Eagle pride with so many Gulfview alumni, as well as building connections with new students.
“Naples High is a special place, rooted in traditions and community connections,” Lee said. “Knowing many of the students, families, staff and alumni has made this a second school home for many years. I am honored to be able to move to Naples High School, serve all the Golden Eagles that I already know, as well as those I look forward to meeting!”
When starting the new school year, Lee plans to assess the needs of the faculty and student body and then take a collaborative approach to meeting those needs. Working together with the NHS community will provide her with the means to support the school’s strengths and remedy any flaws that might surface.
“I believe implementation of change should come after truly understanding the needs of a school and their community,” Lee said. “As I get to know those needs, I anticipate working alongside the staff, students and community to meet those needs as well as celebrate the many successes and strengths at NHS.”
As preparations are being made to support another successful year at Naples High, Lee speaks to students with support, advocacy and deep excitement to become a Golden Eagle.
“As we start the 2022-23 school year, know that I am privileged to be your new principal and look forward to supporting you, advocating for you and continuing on the many traditions that make Naples High School such an exceptional school!” Lee said.
