U-46 picks new Bartlett High principal

Elgin Area School District U-46 again has tapped into its internal talent pool to fill a high-profile vacancy.

The district announced Tuesday that Suzanne Colombe, associate principal at Bartlett High School, will become principal of the school when Kevin Skinkis leaves at the end of June.

Skinkis, in his fourth year leading Bartlett, announced earlier this year he is leaving to serve as superintendent of Riverside-Brookfield High School District 208.

In a news release, U-46 officials said Colombe's experience as an administrator and intimate knowledge of Bartlett High School makes her a natural choice to succeed Skinkis.

Skinkis, who hired Colombe as his English Department chair before promoting her to associate principal two years later, had high praise for his successor.

“Suzanne's character, integrity and leadership will serve Bartlett High School for many years,” Skinkis said. “She'll be able to take Bartlett on its next journey to academic achievement.”

Colombe could not be reached immediately for comment.

U-46 has also named Catherine Fletcher the next principal of Heritage Elementary School in Streamwood.

Fletcher is currently an assistant principal in Schaumburg Township Elementary District 54.

U-46 has filled six principal vacancies so far this academic year. The district still has to pick principals for Channing Memorial, Hilltop and Spring Trail elementary schools.