BRUNSWICK

Shelly Wheeler has been named St. John’s Catholic School’s new principal, according to an announcement by the Roman Catholic Diocese of Portland.

Wheeler is currently the principal at Saint Dominic Academy’s Auburn campus. She succeeds Timothy Forti, who resigned for family reasons at the end of the academic year.

The move is effective July 1.

“I am eager to apply my Catholic faith and my classroom experience in this exciting new role at St. John’s,” Wheeler said in a press release. “I am an active member of Prince of Peace Parish in Lewiston and have chosen to educate my own children in Catholic schools. I have observed firsthand how these schools are centered in faith, community, and service, and I am thrilled to assist in leading the school to new heights of excellence.”

Wheeler has served as Saint Dominic’s principal for two years following a year as a science and math teacher at the school.

Prior, she was a math teacher at Oak Hill High School in Wales from 2004 to 2015. Wheeler also spent two years as a math teacher at Winslow High School.

In addition, Wheeler served from 2009-2015 as an AP statistics reader, one of 500 college professors and high school instructors worldwide to read and score AP statistics exams. She earned a bachelor’s degree in secondary education from the University of Maine at Farmington and a master’s degree in education from the University of New England.

“Shelly possesses many years of experience as an educator in Maine schools and is well-known for connecting with students and parents as well as her approach to implementing innovative approaches in the classroom,” said the Rev. Thomas Murphy, pastor of All Saints Parish in Brunswick. “We are very fortunate to have found a well-respected principal and teacher to share her passion for Catholic education at St. John’s.”

New building at St. John’s

Wheeler arrives as construction continues on the parish and school’s new multipurpose facility being built across the parking lot from the school. The facility will include a large open space that will serve as an auditorium, gymnasium and cafeteria, in addition to a kitchen music room and stage and an adoration chapel.

“With Shelly’s arrival and the new facility, our school’s future is undoubtedly bright,” said Murphy. “With the new remains St. John’s tradition of committing to helping our children excel academically while cultivating their faith lives. Our staff continually strives to help our young people understand the responsibility they have for each other. It is a place where faith and education truly meet.”

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