Community input in schools vital, says head principal

VISIONARY: Owhata Primary School principal Bob Stiles is looking forward to the challenge of being president of the Rotorua Principals' Association. PHOTO/BEN FRASER 270614BF17

Owhata School principal Bob Stiles has been confirmed as the new president of the Rotorua Principals' Association.

Mr Stiles was handed the role at the association's annual meeting this month and said he was excited to start working with the community, iwi, and education providers.

"I am very lucky to have such a supportive executive within the association mentoring me as I take over the position. I am looking forward to reaching out to people in the community and hopefully making some positive progress in the next couple of years."

He has taken over from Linda Woon and Lorraine Taylor who had been co-presidents since April last year.

Mr Stiles said the education of New Zealand youth was a passion of his. "The educational network in Rotorua is as good as any in New Zealand, but it is vital for the community to communicate and work with their local schools to improve it further."

A principal for 16 years, he worked in Westland and South Taranaki before settling down in Rotorua as the principal of Mamaku School. Four years later he took over at Owhata Primary School and has worked there since.

"I absolutely love Rotorua. My family and I have lived here for 12 years and have been very happy."