New Prairie Schools is excited to announce the hiring of Ms. Heidi West to serve as the next principal of New Prairie Middle School (NPMS). Ms. West has served for the past three years as Assistant Principal at New Prairie Middle School. During this time, Ms. West has distinguished herself as a leader respected by students, staff, and families alike for a student-centered focus in leadership, honest and approachable communication, and a dedication to continuous improvement.
Ms. West helped to guide NPMS to national recognition as a Model Professional Learning Community School in 2024. Prior to this, Ms. West served as a highly successful Language Arts teacher for twenty-two years, serving most recently as a teacher and department chair at Portage High School from 2006-2023. As a result, Ms. West has extensive experience in effective student learning practices, collaboration with teachers, and creating necessary structures and processes for student success.
Dr. Paul White, NPUSC Superintendent stated about the hiring, “Justin Holmquest led NPMS with distinction over the past eight years. It was critical to identify the right leader to move the school forward. Fortunately for NPUSC, that leader was right there already doing the work at NPMS. Ms. West is a compassionate, approachable, and driven educator who has earned deep respect from all NPMS school stakeholders. We are all excited to continue the great work being done at NPMS with Ms. West as principal.”
Ms. West stated about the opportunity,”I am very grateful to have the opportunity to be the next principal at New Prairie Middle School. NPMS has excellent teachers and staff who work hard every day to make sure all students achieve high levels of learning. I am excited to see what we can accomplish working together to best serve the students and families of our school.“
Ms. West was hired by the NPUSC School Board on March 4th by unanimous vote for a two- year contract and will begin her duties as NPMS Principal on July 1st.
