The Licking R-8 Board of Education is pleased to announce the hiring of Mrs. Angie Loughridge as Licking High School Principal for the 2026-2027 school year. Mrs. Loughridge will be succeeding Dr. Jarad Rinne, current LHS Principal, who was recently named Assistant Superintendent for the Forsyth R-III School District.
The board conducted interviews on Wednesday, January 28. Board President, Mr. Alan Quick, remarked that Mrs. Loughridge’s demonstrated excellence in her current role as Junior High Principal was key to the board’s decision.
When asked about being selected as LHS Principal, Mrs. Loughridge stated, “I am truly honored to be selected as the incoming High School Principal at Licking High School. I am grateful to work alongside the best administrative team around and to be part of a campus built on collaboration and shared leadership. I especially want to thank Dr. Rinne for his exceptional leadership, mentorship, and for his part establishing traditions that make Licking High School so special. I am committed to keeping those traditions sacred while continuing to grow and move forward together. I am excited to continue providing real-world learning opportunities that ensure our students are college-, technical school-, or career-ready, while also supporting and empowering our faculty and staff. I am proud to serve this incredible school community.”
Currently serving as the leader of Licking High School, Dr. Rinne has served the district for 12 years. Before his service as LHS Principal for the past 8 years, he served as Junior High Principal and Athletic Director for 4 years. Dr. Rinne has also been vital to district safety enhancements in recent years, also serving as District Safety Coordinator.
Dr. Rinne shared with his staff when breaking the news of his departure, “I am so proud of what we have accomplished together over these past 12 years. There is no doubt in my mind that our students at LHS are loved, provided for, and safe. I could not have asked for a better group of professionals to work with or a better community to serve.”
Regarding Dr. Rinne’s service to the district, Superintendent Haneline said, “Dr. Rinne's thoughtful leadership has been a tremendous blessing to our school district. The impact he has had on students, families, staff is immeasurable. He will be deeply missed not only at LHS, but in the community of Licking. We wish him continued success as he transitions into his new role as Assistant Superintendent for Forsyth.”
Board members commended Dr. Rinne for his outstanding leadership when he announced his resignation at the January board meeting. Board President Quick said, “We are incredibly grateful to Dr. Rinne for his steady and kind care for all students, his focus on high expectations for student conduct, and his support of high school programs and activities. His leadership will have a lasting impact in the district. We thank him for his contributions as Principal of Licking High School."