Slidell School District welcomes new principals and assistant principals for the upcoming year

The St. Tammany Parish Public School System welcomed seven new administrators during the Board Meeting on June 12, 2025, marking a significant step forward in leadership for the district. The appointments, which include principals and assistant principals across various schools, aim to enhance educational experiences and foster community engagement.

Among the new principals is Alexander Howard, who will lead Bayou Woods Elementary. In her acceptance speech, Howard expressed gratitude for the opportunity and emphasized her commitment to serving the school community with passion and purpose. She highlighted the importance of collaboration and building on the existing strong foundation at Bayou Woods.

George Halisca was appointed as the principal of Slidell High School, returning to a familiar environment where he has spent a significant portion of his career. Halisca expressed his excitement about serving the Slidell learning community and assured faculty, staff, and students of his dedication to making their experience the best it can be.

The meeting also introduced new assistant principals, including Michelle Ostracker at Creekside Junior High and Caitlin Lancaster at Pitcher Junior High. Both expressed their enthusiasm for their new roles and commitment to fostering positive school cultures. Lancaster, in particular, reflected on her journey and the support she received from her family and colleagues.

Additionally, the Board announced three new parish-wide assistant principals, including Joshua Chauset, who will serve at Slidell Junior High. Chauset shared his excitement about transitioning from the classroom to administration, emphasizing his desire to support students and teachers in a broader capacity.

Stacy Hoover and Julie Ricca were also appointed as parish-wide assistant principals, both expressing gratitude for their families and mentors who have supported their educational journeys. Hoover highlighted her commitment to being a visible and supportive presence for students, while Ricca reaffirmed her dedication to helping every child become a lifelong learner.

The meeting concluded with a sense of optimism for the upcoming school year, as the newly appointed administrators prepare to take on their roles and contribute to the growth and success of the St. Tammany Parish educational community. The Board expressed excitement about the potential these leaders bring to their respective schools and the district as a whole.