OREGON — Oregon CUSD 220 is proud to announce the hiring of Jen Speakes as the new principal of Oregon Junior/Senior High School.
“Throughout my career, I’ve been part of many hiring processes,” Superintendent Dr. PJ Caposey said. “This was the finest group of finalist candidates I’ve encountered. Jen set herself apart with her unique combination of instructional coaching experience, high school assistant principalship, and proven success as a junior high principal. She is exactly the right fit for where OJSHS is headed.”
Speakes brings with her a deep commitment to the Ogle County area and to public education. A lifelong resident of the region, she currently lives in Mt. Morris with her husband, Eric, and their daughter, Harper, age 6. The family has been farming locally for the past four years.
Speakes holds a bachelor’s degree in English with a minor in pre-law from Eastern Illinois University, a master’s in teaching from Rockford University, and a master’s in educational leadership from the American College of Education. Her professional experience spans more than 15 years, including:
Three years as an English teacher at Belvidere High School; seven years at Jefferson High School, where she served as an English teacher, instructional coach, and assistant principal; and three years of leadership at Meridian Junior High, including one year as principal-in-waiting and two years as principal.
“I’m honored and excited to join Oregon Junior/Senior High School,” said Speakes. “This is a school and district with a powerful sense of purpose and a deep commitment to students. I can’t wait to partner with staff, students, families, and the community to build on the great work already underway and meet the challenges ahead.”
Caposey expressed gratitude to all those involved in the process. “Thank you to our Leadership Team, Board members, community members, parents, and OJSHS staff who helped guide this important decision. Your input was critical in selecting the next leader for our flagship school.”
Speakes will officially begin her new role this summer.
