Meet Red Jacket's New Assistant Principal and Athletic Director: Christopher Wickham

The Red Jacket Board of Education approved the appointment of Christopher Wickham as the district's new Assistant Principal and Athletic Director during its June 18 meeting.

To help our students, staff, families, and community get to know him better, we asked Mr. Wickham a few questions about his background, leadership philosophy, and what he is looking forward to in his new role.

Tell us a little about yourself.

I am excited to join the Red Jacket community as the new Assistant Principal and Athletic Director. My wife, Jackie, and I live in the Gorham/Stanley area and are raising our two daughters, Nora and Kennedy.

Family is at the center of everything I do, and much of my leadership philosophy is rooted in the values I learned through athletics, my farming background, and public education.

Outside of school, I enjoy spending time with my family, supporting my daughters in their activities, and being outdoors as much as possible. Growing up and working in rural communities has given me an appreciation for the unique opportunities and strong sense of community that small schools provide.

What is your educational and professional background?

My career in education has given me a unique perspective on schools and the many ways we support student success.

I began my career as a Special Education Teacher before moving into educational technology leadership as a Director of Technology. Most recently, I served as the School Business Administrator for Marcus Whitman Central School District.

Throughout my career, I have worked closely with students, staff, families, coaches, and community members in a variety of leadership roles. These experiences have helped me develop a strong understanding of both the instructional and operational sides of education while always keeping students at the center of decision-making.

What experiences have helped prepare you for this role?

I believe the greatest preparation for this role has come from serving schools from multiple perspectives.

As a teacher, I learned the importance of building strong relationships with students and families. As a technology and district leader, I gained experience leading teams, solving complex challenges, managing resources, and supporting staff growth.

My background in athletics has also taught me the value of teamwork, accountability, resilience, and servant leadership. Whether working with students, coaches, teachers, or community members, I strive to be visible, approachable, and focused on helping others succeed.

These experiences have reinforced my belief that strong relationships are the foundation of a successful school culture.

What attracted you to Red Jacket?

What attracted me most to Red Jacket was the district's strong sense of community and commitment to students.

Throughout the interview process, I could feel the pride that staff, families, students, and community members have in their schools.

I have always been passionate about rural education and small school districts. Small schools provide unique opportunities to build meaningful relationships, know students by name, and create experiences that help every student feel connected and valued.

Red Jacket's focus on community, student growth, and providing opportunities for all students aligns closely with my own values and leadership philosophy.

What are you most looking forward to as Assistant Principal and Athletic Director?

I am most looking forward to building relationships and becoming an active part of the school community.

I believe some of the best work happens when leaders are visible, present, and engaged in the daily life of the school.

As Assistant Principal, I look forward to supporting students, collaborating with teachers, and helping create an environment where all students can thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.

As Athletic Director, I am excited to work alongside our coaches and student-athletes to strengthen and develop programs that promote character, teamwork, leadership, and school pride.

Is there anything you'd like our students, staff, families, and community to know about you?

I want people to know that I am here to listen, learn, and serve.

I believe that every member of a school community has an important voice, and I value open communication, collaboration, and mutual respect.

I am someone who believes in showing up, building relationships, and doing what is best for students. I care deeply about public education, especially in rural communities, and I understand the important role schools play in bringing communities together.

I am excited to learn from the people who make Red Jacket special and to contribute in any way I can to support our students and school community.