By Erik Jones
Jennifer Bengele, longtime principal of Vermilion High School, has announced she will step down from her role effective June 30. Bengele shared the news in a public letter on April 15, confirming that she will be accepting a new position as Director of Curriculum and Instruction at Metro Catholic School.
Bengele’s departure marks the end of a 23-year career with Vermilion Local Schools, where she served as both a teacher and principal. In her statement, she expressed deep gratitude for the community, saying, “It has been my utmost honor and privilege to be part of the Vermilion Schools community… Thank you for the support and kindness you have shown me during my time as a Sailor.”
Superintendent Dr. David Hile followed up the announcement with a message to staff, acknowledging Bengele’s commitment to students and education. “I personally really enjoy working with Mrs. Bengele and admire her work ethic, professional focus, passion for instructional leadership, ethical/moral compass, and the fact that she is just a really good person,” he wrote. “Mrs. Bengele, you will be missed.”
The district has already begun preparations for the principal search. According to Dr. Hile, the position will be posted widely to attract a large and diverse pool of candidates. He emphasized that internal candidates are strongly encouraged to apply.
The selection process will include multiple rounds. Initial paper screenings will be followed by screener interviews conducted by Dr. Hile and Assistant Superintendent Mr. Weaver. Those who move forward will participate in interviews with the district’s administrative team, followed by a final round involving a stakeholder group made up of staff and community members.
Dr. Hile clarified that the stakeholder team will provide advisory input rather than make the final decision, noting that certain factors—such as background checks and references—may not be available to the full group. However, he stressed that their insights are a valued part of the process and have historically revealed important qualities in candidates.
The district hopes to complete the hiring process before the end of the school year but is willing to extend the timeline if necessary to secure the right candidate.
Staff are invited to share feedback on the qualities they would like to see in the school’s next leader. “If you’d prefer to meet with us face-to-face and have a conversation about it, we welcome that as well,” Dr. Hile said.
As the district prepares for this transition, the community reflects on the impact of a leader who has spent over two decades helping to shape the future of Vermilion’s students.
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