PRINCIPAL ACCEPTS
POSITION IN ILLINOIS

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
December 18, 2009
For more information contact
Mr. Michael McGrory
515.817.0600
mmcgory@ames.k12.ia.us

AMES—Ames High School principal Michael McGrory will be stepping down from his position here at the end of the 2009-2010 school year to accept a job with the Hinsdale (Illinois) School District.

McGrory has accepted a similar position with the Hinsdale schools that will begin at the start of the 2010-2011 school year. He will continue to serve as the AHS principal through the end of the 2009-2010 school year. His last day with the Ames District has not yet been determined.

McGrory was hired as AHS principal in 2000 and during his tenure, Ames High School has been recognized by Newsweek magazine and twice by U.S. News and World Report as being one of the nation’s top academic high schools.

McGrory says it will be difficult to leave Ames High School, “It’s been a privilege to lead such an outstanding staff and an unbelievably talented student body.” He also commended the families of AHS students, noting that student success isn’t possible without the support of their families. “I’ve had a strong, positive experience in the Ames Schools,” and went on to say, “I will miss my job and the many friends I’ve made here. I will always view my time in Ames with great fondness.”

Only the most exceptional opportunity would entice my family and me to consider moving elsewhere. That opportunity was presented to me by the Hinsdale Schools. I was honored to be considered for the position, and even more honored to be offered it.

McGrory thanked the ACSD central office administration, and the school Board for all their support during his decade as principal of Ames High School. He also expressed his appreciation to the Ames Schools and its educators for providing his four children with an outstanding educational experience over the last 10 years.