Leadership changes announced for Byrne, Neill elementary schools

District 191 announced two school leadership changes that will take place for the 2019-20 school year. Dr. Elizabeth Vaught, current principal at Neill Elementary, will be moving to William Byrne STEM Elementary, and current Byrne Principal Lyle Bomsta will be moving to Neill Elementary.

“For any school, change in leadership brings in new perspectives, new strengths and new ideas. That, in turn, fosters growth for the school, for staff members and for the building leader,” Superintendent Cindy Amoroso said. “Because of these benefits, changes in school leadership have become part of our normal practices.”

Both principals have been at their current schools for 9 years.

Bomsta started his career in education as an elementary teacher in Brooklyn Park and has experience as a technology integrationist and assistant principal. He has his master’s degree in educational leadership.

“I’ve been fortunate to work with and lead staff, students and families at Byrne for nearly a decade,” Bomsta said. “I look forward to taking what I’ve learned during that time and contributing to the Neill community.”

Dr. Vaught has master’s degrees in literacy and educational administration and her doctorate in educational leadership. Prior to becoming principal at Neill, she held positions as a teacher, interventionist, staff development coach and assistant principal.

“I am humbled and privileged to have served as Neill's principal for the last nine years. The staff and students are amazing and will be missed,” she said. “I am also excited about building new relationships at Byrne.”

Families at both Neill and Byrne elementary schools will have opportunities to meet and get to know the new principals prior to the start of the 2019-20 school year. Watch school websites or e-newsletters for information.