Mount St. Joseph Academy is thrilled to announce Mike Alexander has been named the next Vice Principal of MSJ.
Mr. Alexander, who currently serves as Director of School Counseling at the Slate Valley School District in Fair Haven, is looking forward to getting started in his new role.
“Throughout the hiring process, I have been struck by the sense of family and closeness within the staff, students, and community that surrounds MSJ. This has to be the number one thing that excites me about the job. In addition, I look forward to being part of a school with the reputation for excellent achievement in all aspects of a student's high school experience, academically, athletically, spiritually,” Mr. Alexander said.
Previous to his current role, he was a school counselor at Fair Haven Union High School and retired as Lieutenant Colonel with over 25 years of service as a U.S. Army Aviator and Artillery Officer. During his military career, he served in many worldwide assignments including two combat tours in both Iraq and Afghanistan. His many awards and decorations include the Legion of Merit, four Bronze Stars, three Meretricious Service medals, and the Army Aviator wings.
Mr. Alexander brings to MSJ a wealth of experience in leadership and community building.
“I am hoping to build strong relationships with all the stakeholders at MSJ - students, faculty, staff, parents, and the community at large. In this process, I will support the principal and uphold the standards and reputation of Mount St. Joseph Academy,” Mr. Alexander said.
Mr. Alexander traveled the world during his military career, but is no stranger to the area. He grew up in Castleton with his three brothers and a sister. His father, Jim, was a long-time employee of General Electric in Rutland and his mother, Barbara, operated a daycare from their home. He and his wife, Debbie, graduated from Fair Haven Union High School in 1984. In 1988, he graduated from Norwich University and married his high school sweetheart.
Mr. Alexander and Debbie currently live in West Castleton. They have two adult daughters, Elizabeth and Erin.
Mr. Alexander holds a Bachelor of Science in Recreation Management from Norwich University, a Master of Arts in Human Resource Development from Webster University and Masters in School Counseling from Capella University. He replaces Phil Hall, who has accepted a position as the assistant principal of Castleton Village School.
“The most exciting thing I look forward to is connecting with students. MSJ is a big family and I have big shoes to fill. I'm excited about getting started and earning a spot on the team!” Mr. Alexander said.