Oak Park principal resigns

Oak Park High is seeking a new principal to lead the school beginning July 1. Andi Mallen has resigned effective June 30.

A committee of parents, teachers and administrators is being formed to interview candidates, Oak Park Unified School District Superintendent Tony Knight said.

Mallen, who replaced Lynn McCormack last year, is "moving on to other interests," Knight said.

Specific reasons for Mallen's departure weren't made public.

The principal's job is difficult because of the high expectations placed by students and parents, Knight said. The principal must also oversee a slew of extracurricular activities.

"There are only three administrators, the principal and two assistant principals to handle everything going on. That's a lot to monitor and supervise," Knight said.

The school district said it is seeking in a new principal who is focused on student achievement and well-being, who works well with teachers, and who can create a shared leadership atmosphere, Knight said.

"We say that our high school is our flagship. It's one of the state's top performing schools. . . . Our staff works hard for the kids," the superintendent said. "We believe we will be able to attract a good person."

—Sophia Fischer