Hancock Place High School will be getting a new principal next school year.

The Hancock Place Board of Education unanimously accepted the recommendation to hire David Williams as the new principal of the high school, effective July 1, 2022.

Williams is currently a middle school principal in the Wright City School District, where he has worked since 2019. Prior to Wright City, Williams was an assistant principal and high school principal on the East Coast. In total, Williams has led in middle school and high school settings for the last 14 years.

“Mr. Williams brings a wealth of leadership experience … to Hancock Place High School,” Superintendent Kevin Carl said in a press release. “He’s a proven communicator who focuses on what’s best for all students. His positive attitude and student centered approach will steer our high school into the future. The input from our students, parents and teachers on the interview teams was overwhelming in support of his selection. This is an exciting time to be a Tiger!”

Williams is a former researcher and classroom teacher, with an academic background in science and an emphasis in biology. He emerged as the top candidate following several rounds of interviews.

Williams said he is “excited to join Hancock Place to learn and lead alongside great students, outstanding teachers and the supportive school community.” Students, staff and community members will have several opportunities to meet Williams before he starts July 1.