OREGON – Jen Speakes has been selected as the next principal of Oregon Junior/Senior High School and will begin her role this summer, bringing more than 15 years of education experience across junior high and high school settings. A longtime Ogle County resident, Speakes has held leadership roles at Meridian Junior High and Jefferson High School, and taught English at Belvidere High School. She holds degrees from Eastern Illinois University, Rockford University, and the American College of Education.
Speakes said she plans to focus on expanding opportunities for students in both academic and social development, including responsible technology use.
“Just teaching students how to use technology appropriately, that sets them up for success later in life, also making sure that they have a solid mental health base. Because oftentimes we see the negative effects of technology that can really affect students. We just want to have them use it appropriately to better their situation.”