THE FOLLOWING IS A LETTER SENT OUT BY SCHLARMAN ACADEMY ON THE NAMING OF KATHERINE HICKS AS THE NEW PRINCIPAL
UPDATE: A meet and greet for new Schlarman Academy principal Katherine Hicks is scheduled for 12 Noon – 2 PM; Sunday, April 6th; at the Motsett Center (106 Voorhees Street, adjacent from St. Paul’s Church).
Dear Schlarman Academy Community,
I am pleased to announce that Katherine Hicks has been hired as the new principal of Schlarman Academy, effective July 1, 2025. Schlarman’s principal search committee unanimously recommended to the Diocese of Peoria that Ms. Hicks be named the next principal of the Academy, and Bishop Louis Tylka has graciously accepted the committee’s recommendation.
Katherine Hicks currently serves as a middle school teacher at Holy Cross School in Champaign. She previously served as Education Coordinator with the Orpheum Museum and as a program manager with the Champaign Park District. Ms. Hicks has also worked as a STEAM education teacher at Parkland College and a special education aide at Ludlow Grade School.
Ms. Hicks holds a Bachelor of Science degree in history and geography from Illinois State University and a Master of Arts degree from the University of West Georgia. During her career, she has demonstrated expertise in curriculum development, personnel management, fostering strong relationships with local businesses and community stakeholders, and designing and executing marketing campaigns. She has served as a presenter or panelist at regional and national conferences, and she has authored several professional publications.
Katherine Hicks is looking forward to serving as the principal of Schlarman Academy. As an educator, she believes that “the goal of Catholic education is not merely to prepare students for success in the world, but to prepare them for eternal life.” She hopes to collaborate with school families, teachers, and community members to foster a climate where everyone is treated with dignity, compassion, and respect.
The Diocese of Peoria is pleased to welcome Katherine Hicks as the next administrator of the school, where she will guide the spiritual development, academic excellence, and commitment to Christ-like service which have been the hallmark of a Catholic education at Schlarman for generations.
In Christ,
Jerry Sanderson, Ed.D.
Superintendent of Catholic Schools
