ITHACA, NY (607NewsNow) – Ithaca High School has named a new principal.

Longtime educator Caren Arnold will step into the position, effective June 15. She will look to strengthen student engagement, expand academic opportunities, and support teachers and staff.

Arnold began her 32-year career as a speech and language therapist in 1993 before becoming an elementary school teacher.

In 2020, she was appointed Director of Student Activities and Engagement at IHS and served as associate principal there before accepting a position as principal at Caroline Elementary School in 2021. She also previously served as Project Lead Manager for the district’s secondary school learning management system, Canvas.

“I am thrilled to be returning to Ithaca High School in this new role and to reconnect with the incredible students, families, and staff who make this community so special,” stated Arnold. “I am committed to building upon the academic excellence that Ithaca is known for while ensuring that every student feels valued, heard, and supported.”

District officials are happy to have Arnold back at IHS.

“Caren Arnold is one of the longest-serving, most loving, and most exceptional employees in our school district,” said Superintendent Dr. Luvelle Brown.

Arnold will take over for Jason Trumble and Acting Principal Martha Hardesty, who are both set to retire at the end of the school year.