School district hires news principals for McDill, McKinley
By Patrick Lynn
Portage County — The Stevens Point Area Public School District has announced the appointments of Cole Irish and Chase Gildenzoph as the new principals of McDill Elementary School and McKinley Elementary School, respectively, effective July 1.
Irish, who brings a strong background in educational leadership, holds a Master of Science in Education with a focus on school supervision and instructional leadership from UW-River Falls. He earned his Bachelor of Science in elementary education from UW-Stevens Point. With three years of teaching experience and two years as an administrator, Irish has developed a comprehensive understanding of both classroom and administrative dynamics.
Most recently, Irish served as the principal of Birnamwood Elementary and Middle School in the Wittenberg-Birnamwood School District. In this role, he led 37 staff members and 350 students.
Irish shared his enthusiasm about joining the Stevens Point community.
“I am honored to join McDill Elementary School as the principal,” he said. “I believe in creating a collaborative and inclusive school environment where students, staff, and community members work together to achieve excellence. I look forward to contributing to the continued success of McDill and fostering a nurturing and dynamic learning environment.”
In addition to his administrative duties, Irish has been an active member of the Wisconsin Army National Guard for eight years, currently serving as a company commander.
Gildenzoph, who also brings extensive experience in educational leadership, holds a Master of Science in Education with a focus on educational administration from Concordia University. He earned his Bachelor of Science in mathematics education from UW-Stevens Point. With nine years of experience as an elementary principal and five years as a high school mathematics teacher, Gildenzoph has a well-rounded perspective on education.
For the past nine years, Gildenzoph has served as the principal of Oxford Elementary and Coloma Elementary in the Westfield School District.
Gildenzoph expressed his excitement about joining the Stevens Point community. “I am honored to be given the opportunity to lead McKinley Elementary School,” he said. “I look forward to working with the talented staff, engaged parents, and wonderful students to continue building a supportive and enriching educational experience for all.”
In addition to his administrative duties, Gildenzoph is passionate about community involvement and has actively participated in various educational and extracurricular activities, including football, student council, and math club.