The Licking R-8 Board of Education is pleased to announce the hiring of Mrs. Aibeen Holland as Junior High School Principal for the upcoming school year. Mrs. Holland will be filling the position of Mrs. Angie Loughridge, current Junior High Principal, who was recently named Licking High School Principal for the 2026-2027 school year.
The board conducted interviews on Wednesday, January 28. Board President, Mr. Alan Quick, remarked that Mrs. Holland’s alignment with the district mission and vision as well as her track record of school improvement, were key drivers in her selection to serve as Junior High Principal. Regarding Mrs. Holland's selection as Junior High Principal, Superintendent Telena Haneline commented, "Mrs. Holland brings more than 20 years of experience as an educator and leader focused on improving student outcomes. We are blessed to have her join the Wildcat Family as we work together to raise academic achievement across the district."
Mrs. Holland's experience includes her current role serving as High School Principal at the Crocker R-II School District, where she secured the Comprehensive State Literacy Development (CSLD) Grant, led efforts to integrate literacy across all content areas, strengthening instructional practices schoolwide, obtained funding through RootEd to expand structured postsecondary planning, career exploration, and student support systems, emphasized collaborative, data-informed decision-making, and consistent communication with families to strengthen trust and shared ownership in student success.
In addition to her secondary principal experience, Mrs. Holland has also served as Superintendent/Principal at Oak Hill R-I School District and as a teacher and instructional leader at Green Forest R-2 and Dent-Phelps R-3.
Mrs. Holland has earned a Master's Degree in Curriculum and Instruction, a Specialist Degree in Educational Leadership, and is currently working toward her Doctorate of Educational Leadership. Outside of her time at school, she enjoys spending time with her family, cooking, gardening, and hiking.
Mrs. Holland says, "As a classroom teacher earlier in my career, I learned firsthand the importance of strong instruction, clear expectations, and meaningful relationships. I strive to be a visible, approachable, servant leader who supports staff, promotes consistency, and maintains high expectations while fostering a positive, student-focused school culture. I am honored to have this opportunity to contribute to the continued growth and success of Licking Junior High's students, staff, and community."