Providence Catholic High School names new principal

Providence Catholic High School announced it will have a new principal.

Fr. John Merkelis, the high school president, named Paul Houston to be the school’s next principal starting July 1, according to a news release.

“After a rigorous national search, we have chosen the very best candidate for the job,” Merkelis said in a statement. “Mr. Houston comes to us with the necessary administrative and educational experience required to lead our school community. In addition, we’re delighted that Mr. Houston happens to be one of our own. He is a former teacher and administrator at PCHS.”

Houston began his career at Providence Catholic in 1989 as a teacher and the director of student activities. He continued his career at Lyons Township High School as assistant principal and most recently served as their Global Studies Division chairman, supervising and evaluating teachers and developing curricula.

“Being named principal of Providence is a great honor and I embrace the opportunity to work closely with the staff, as well as the students and their families to advance the school’s mission,” Houston said in a statement. “I know what a special place Providence truly is, and I am humbled to return to the place where I began my career.”

Houston received his bachelor’s degree in history from the College of St. Francis and his master’s degree in educational administration from Governors State University.

The school conducted a search to replace Principal John Harper who announced his retirement last year.