Principal Spinnati takes medical leave

New Richmond High School principal Diana Spinnati announced Friday that she will be taking approximately six weeks medical leave for treatment of "serious medical issues."

Jim Smith, a former principal of Grant Vocational and Bethel High School as well as superintendent of Bethel Schools, has been named as interim principal according to New Richmond superintendent of schools Adam Bird.

Ms. Spinnati informed New Richmond High School students and their families of her medical leave in a letter sent home with students.

The letter follows:

Many students and parents are wondering why I have been absent several days over the past few weeks. I hope this letter will help clarify these issues and inform you as to the path for the future.

I have encountered some serious medical issues over the past several weeks. Unfortunately in order to address these issues, I must take approximately six weeks off. My hope is to return by spring break.

Mr. Bird has worked hard to ensure that what we have at New Richmond High School continues without interruption. We are happy to introduce Mr. Jim Smith as interim principal. Mr. Smith is the former superintendent of Bethel schools. He has also been a principal at Grant Vocational School as well as Bethel High School. We are pleased to have Mr. Smith and are confident the students will notice no interruptions in the educational process at the high school.

In closing I would like to thank the students, parents, and staff for their concern and well wishes. I can assure you in the words of Arnold Schwarzenegger – “I’ll be baaack”

Thank you,

Diana Spinnati