Thirty years ago, Stephanie Posey was on the football field twirling batons.

Performing during halftimes is one of Posey’s fondest high school memories. Being new to Naperville North, she hopes to provide students with similar experiences: moments that they’ll recall 30 years from now.

Now, Posey can be found behind the principal’s desk at NNHS. Transitioning from Bellville East High School, Posey said she has experienced a warm welcome.

“When you come in the door here, you can tell that kids love being Huskies,” Posey said. 

Last year, several rumors regarding Posey’s plans for policy changes and senior traditions began to  travel through the student body. These concerns included cell phones being completely banned and seniors not being allowed to run through the hallways on the first day of school. Student activities director Jennifer Baumgartner explained that these details were the least of Posey’s worries.

“Here the seniors are running through the hallways in their cute little outfits and when you tell them to go to class they do,” Baumgartner said. “It was awesome.”

Before Posey came Naperville North, she was working at a high school with a smaller student body than NNHS’: 2,500 students. Her previous district was high school only, so coming into North and seeing grade schools attached to the district was a major difference.

Former principal Kevin Pobst was warmly regarded by many students. Pobst’s personality allowed him to interact well with students. Nevertheless, many students believe that Posey will live up to the standards that Pobst left behind.

Senior Kendall Wolniewicz said she was a little bummed out after hearing that Pobst wouldn’t be returning for her senior year. She was afraid that traditions she had been looking forward too would change. But after meeting Posey, she knew her senior year would be just as enjoyable as if Pobst never left.

“She supports everything as much as Mr. Pobst would,” said Wolniewicz.

Not only does Posey support NNHS, but she said that high schools students truly are her passion.

“My friends and family would definitely say that I’m very dedicated to anything that has to do with high school. To be honest, high school kids are my hobby,” Posey said.

Baumgartner said that she has no worries about Posey. Recalling the time that Pobst left, Baumgartner said that he assured her, “Jen, you’re in good hands.”