Principal's Message

Dear New Palestine High School Families,

It is both an honor and a privilege to serve as the principal of New Palestine High School. The 2023-24 school year marks my 31st year in education and my 23rd as an administrator in the school district of Southern Hancock. Throughout my career I have enjoyed many opportunities, first as a teacher and then as an administrator, to realize my life-long passion: assisting in the development of youth. I am grateful for the opportunity to serve Southern Hancock and feel blessed to be part of a caring, hard-working school family.

As educators, we have the incredible opportunity and unique responsibility to assist students in their academic, social, and emotional development. Therefore, our mission at New Palestine High School is to develop the whole individual, helping each student maximize his/her potential.  I believe it takes a village to raise a child. We at NPHS are truly a village, as teachers, parents, and staff members combine efforts to provide the best environment for the development of our nation’s future leaders.

As your principal, I promise to keep student well-being at the forefront of every decision we make as a school. On behalf of our staff, I pledge our commitment to providing students with knowledge, skills, and a growth mindset. Additionally, we will strive to encourage curiosity, teach problem-solving, and instill a life-long respect for learning within each of our students.  

I look forward to another amazing year at NPHS!  Go Dragons!

Your Proud Principal,

James R. Voelz