Newton High School officially has a new head honcho, and everyone wanted their turn to tell John Ellenberg congratulations.

Ellenberg had been serving as Newton’s interim principal since January 28, but the Newton County Board of Education approved Superintendent Samantha Fuhrey’s recommendation to appoint him principal at its regular monthly meeting Tuesday evening.

“I am confident Mr. Ellenberg will remain dedicated and committed to the students, faculty, staff and community of Newton High School,” Fuhrey said. “He has high expectations of his students and staff and intends to ensure all students are positioned to achieve their dreams. Mr. Ellenberg expects that all students who exit Newton High School upon graduation will be well-prepared to compete globally.”

Ellenberg holds a specialist degree from the University of West Georgia, a Master of Arts in teaching science education from Piedmont College and a Bachelor of Science from Georgia College and State University. He is currently pursuing a doctoral degree at Nova Southeastern University, where he has completed all required coursework in the Education Leadership program.

Ellenberg’s career at Newton High began in 2001 as a science teacher. He has, since then, held the positions of science department chair, assistant principal and, most recently, interim principal.

“I am thrilled and honored,” Ellenberg said. “I look forward to serving the students … and doing everything needed to equip them to succeed in their future academic journey.”

Eclan David previously held the position.