Prussing School LSC selects new principal
by BRIAN NADIG
The Prussing School Local School Council at its May 12 meeting chose Dr. George Chipain to become the new principal of the school, 4650 N. Menard Ave.
“It is a great school. It is a high-performing school with a rich history and a rich tradition,” Chipain said. “I’m just looking to build on the successes there.”
Chipain has worked for the Chicago Public Schools as a math and science teacher, a teaching coach and an administrator for 23 years, including the last 3 years as an assistant principal at Thorp Scholastic Academy, 6024 W. Warwick Ave. Thorp is a magnet school that accepts students from across the city.
Chipain, who grew up in Berwyn and once lived on the Northwest Side near Harlem and Devon avenues, received a master’s degree in teaching from Roosevelt University and a master’s business administration degree in marketing and a doctorate in educational leadership from DePaul University. He also works as an adjunct professor at DePaul.
“It was a difficult decision. There were many great candidates, but Dr. Chipain was inspiring,” said Prussing LSC chairwoman Michele Taylor. “He’ll make us see the potential Prussing has.”
Chipain said that one of his goals is to create a network of external partners who will work with the school on special initiatives. He said that Thorp raised about $400,000 for a new playground by working with outside agencies and local groups.
One of the things that I am a big believer in is bringing in the community and working with the parents,” Chipain said.
Longtime Prussing principal Lloyd Ehrenberg announced last fall that he would not be seeking another 4-year contract and that he planned to pursue other career opportunities. Ehrenberg, who became principal of Prussing in 1995, stopped working at the school earlier this month, and the school system appointed a retired Chicago principal, Kathleen Bandolik, as the head administrator until July 1, when Chipain’s term starts.
