Melissa Lindner named new principal of St. John’s in Kenmore

Veteran Catholic educator Melissa Lindner has been appointed principal of St. John the Baptist School in Kenmore, effective June 24. The former principal of SS. Peter & Paul School in Williamsville is known for focusing on Catholic identity while promoting Christian values, collaborating with faculty and staff, and advancing the STREAM curriculum (Science, Technology, Religion, Engineering, Arts and Math). She also served as principal of Notre Dame High School in Batavia, technology coordinator, STREAM coordinator, librarian, and technology integration specialist at SS. Peter & Paul, technology teacher at Immaculata Academy in Hamburg, and assistant women’s basketball coach at D’Youville College (now university).

“With extensive experience as a Catholic elementary school principal and a deep commitment to Catholic education, Mrs. Lindner is well-suited to lead the St. John’s School community,” said Father Michael Parker, pastor of St. John’s. “I believe she will move our school forward, building on the spiritual, academic, arts and service excellence for which St. John’s is well known.”

A graduate of Hamburg’s Hilbert College, Lindner received a master of science in Education from D’Youville, a master of public administration from Hilbert College, a certificate of education leadership from Canisius College (now university), and a professional certificate in School District Leadership from New York state.

“I have a deep and passionate commitment to Catholic education,” Lindner said. “I am dedicated to fostering academic excellence while preserving Catholic identity and promoting Christian values. I look forward to working with faculty, staff, parents and guardians to make sure St. John’s remains true to its philosophy of emphasizing the special mission of the Church, especially through education in the Catholic faith.”
Michelle Norris, who stepped up as interim principal in March, will remain at St. John’s as the school’s Catholic Charities counselor. She has a master’s in School Counseling from Johns Hopkins University and said that this is an opportunity that she has always wanted and suits her skillset. “I am grateful to Mrs. Norris for doing an excellent job leading our school to a successful conclusion of the academic year,” Father Parker said. “I am pleased she will remain part of the St. John’s School community, being present to our students when they need her guidance.”

For enrollment information, visit https://stjohnskenmore.com/.