Russ Plager has been chosen as the new high school principal for Wayne Community Schools.
The announcement was made following board action at Monday's meeting of the Board of Education.
Three candidates were selected for interviews for the position — Brandi Bartels - 7-12 Principal/Activities Director at Randolph; Kim Caniglia - High School Assistant Principal at Plattsmouth and Russ Plager - Elementary Principal at Wayne.
Each of the candidates interviewed with students, teachers, and administrators. They were also able to take part in a Community Meet and Greet.
During Plager's community presentation he told those in attendance that he would like to focus on relationships and is "ready for a new challenge."
Plager has served as the elementary principal for Wayne Community Schools for nine years. In addition, he was the head football coach from 2017-2021. He previously taught at several schools in the Lincoln Public School system.
He and his wife, Tiffany, have four children, two of whom are students at Wayne Elementary.
He described himself as a "servant leader" and said "when kids' needs are met, they have a good chance at success."
Plager also spoke of the "family first" atmosphere in regard to the needs of the staff at the school.
His expectations for the position include having a safe, welcoming environment and develop relationships by listening.
"Students come first in creating an environment of learning," Plager said.
Plager will assume the position currently held by Tucker Hight. Hight has been the high school principal for five years and been with the district for a total of 13 years.
He will assume his position as high school principal on July 1 and a search is underway for the position of elementary principal.
