Batavia Public School District 101 filled two administrative positions this month with the appointment of a new Assistant Superintendent of Human Resources and a new Principal of Batavia High School.

“These two educators not only bring a great deal of experience to the district, but a strong commitment to educate the whole child and a passion to help both students and staff to reach their full potential. We are excited to bring them on board,” said Dr. Jack Barshinger, Superintendent.

Steve Pearce, an principal from Schaumburg School District 54, will become the district’s new Assistant Superintendent of Human Resources, effective July 1.  

He will replace Associate Superintendent, Greg Romaneck, who is retiring at the end of the current school year after 7 years with the district and 33 years in education.

“I’m very excited about serving Batavia Public Schools in this capacity,” said Pearce about his appointment. “I consider it an honor to work for a school district with such a great reputation and I look forward to collaborating with the staff and the community to increase student achievement for all of the students we serve,” Pearce said.

JoAnne Smith, will become the next principal of Batavia High School following 17 years of service to the district, most recently serving as assistant principal for curriculum and instruction at the school.   

Smith will replace current principal, Dr. Lisa Hichens, who will take the helm as the district’s next superintendent when Dr. Jack Barshinger retires at the end of June.

“Batavia High School is a wonderful place to work and has been my home for 17 years.  I am thrilled to have the opportunity to be the next principal,” Smith said.

While Pearce was a principal at his first school, Mead Junior High saw the highest levels of student achievement in the school’s history, and was listed among the top 50 high schools in the Chicago suburbs. 

Addams Junior High saw similar results under his leadership, and became the highest performing junior high school in Schaumburg School District 54 in reading and the second highest in math.

Throughout her service in Batavia Public Schools, Smith has been a math teacher, a teacher on special assignment managing the implementation of PowerSchool, and a successful building administrator. 

Smith has a reputation for having a high work ethic and being a problem-solver. In addition, she has led many professional development opportunities for building and district staff.