Rockland School Will Have New Principal in July

Jeff Knapp will take over the top slot at this July.

Knapp, who leaves Grayslake District 46 where he has been principal of Woodview School for the last six years, replaces Principal Jean LeBlanc who is leaving Rockland to be a principal in a larger school district. Before becoming a principal, Knapp was assistant principal at Grayslake Middle School for two years. He also taught at the middle school and served as athletic director for five years.

“We are very excited to welcome Jeff,” said District 70 Supt. Dr. Guy Schumacher. “He is a strong leader with a great vision for Rockland School. His professional experiences and commitment to student and staff success are impressive. We are fortunate to have such a competent and caring educator join our District 70 administrative team."         

Knapp, 34, has worked in District 46 for 13 years, joining the school district after graduating from the University of Illinois with a bachelor’s degree in social studies education. He received a master’s degree in school counseling and educational leadership from Concordia University. He also received his administration certificate from Concordia. He was named Lake Region Assistant Principal of the Year in 2004.

"I am incredibly excited to be a part of the District 70 team of staff, students, and community members,” Knapp said. “Libertyville has a tremendous reputation and I look forward to being a part of the Rockland School community as well as the district leadership team.  Having been given the opportunity to meet as a part of the District 70 Strategic Planning team in mid-May, I come away thoroughly impressed with the leadership and commitment towards improving student learning from all of the stakeholders.  I look forward to getting to know the teachers and parents at Rockland School and am already anxious to welcome the students back for the start of a successful 2011-12 school year."

Rockland School, at 160 W. Rockland Road, currently has a staff of 42 and a school enrollment of 321 students. It’s the first time a male principal has headed the school in more than 20 years.