Schools

WATCH: Meet New Mokena Elementary School Principal, Anna Kirchner

Patch sat down with Anna Kirchner, new principal at MES, and talked about her educational experience, past jobs and what she envisions for her new role.

Starting a new job can be a daunting task. That task can be exponentially more intimidating when you're stepping into a job that puts you in charge of a nearly 750-student grade school, teaming with youngsters, staff and faculty.

Meet new Principal Anna Kirchner.

Kirchner took over as MES principal on July 1 and hit the the ground running.

Find out what's happening in Mokenawith free, real-time updates from Patch.

Since her start, Kirchner has been learning the lay of the land, both literally and figuratively, taking in her new building one day at a time, while also soaking up every bit of information possible.

Kirchner, who holds two master's degrees, comes to MES after a stint as the assistant principal Bradley East Elementary School. She said that her experience there should help make her transition a smooth one, and that she's excited to get the school year underway.

Find out what's happening in Mokenawith free, real-time updates from Patch.

"I'm anxious for the kids and staff to get here," she said. "I'm really looking forward to that a lot."

She added that although she does have small changes in mind to certain aspects of MES, there will be no broad, sweeping changes this year. Instead, she said she will observe and take notes throughout the year, watching for areas that can be improved upon down the line.

Kirchner went on to say that she sees herself as hands-on when it comes to her role in the school.

"I'm very hands-on, I like to be involved," she said. "I plan on being very visible, both in the halls and in my office. I always have an open door policy."

For more information about Kirchner, in her own words, check out Patch's video interview. 


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