John Liuzzi selected as WHS Principal starting summer of 2026

Assistant Principal John Liuzzi, who has spent his entire career in Woodstock Community Unit School District 200, will assume the principal position at Woodstock High School this summer.

Liuzzi said he’s humbled to take the leadership role at the more than century-old school with a rich history, positive school culture, and high academic standards.

“For more than 100 years, WHS has been the pride of our community. We remain committed to being fully invested in our present responsibilities so that future Blue Streaks can be proud of our past,” Liuzzi said.

District Superintendent Mike Moan said Liuzzi is highly regarded by his colleagues after spending four years as an assistant principal. He was the unanimous choice from fellow staff members as the new principal. 

“We’ve been able to watch John grow as an educator and a leader for more than a decade. We’re confident that he’s ready for this next challenge and will continue pursuing excellence for Blue Streak students and staff,” Moan said.

Liuzzi has a bachelor’s degree in psychology from Butler University and a master’s degree in education from Northern Illinois University. He also obtained a second master’s degree in educational leadership from the American College of Education.

He began his career as a Life Skills special education teacher at Woodstock North High School in 2013, where he also taught history, math, English, and reading. Liuzzi was then an AVID teacher, providing first-generation potential college students with lessons on career and college readiness.

In 2022, Liuzzi was named an assistant principal at Woodstock High School, where he has served for the last four years, taking on many administrative duties, including launching and leading the WHS Link Crew, which pairs upperclassmen with incoming freshmen.

Liuzzi said he enjoyed teaching special education, but he hoped to impact a larger student population, which is what he loved during his time as a Blue Streak.

“The people are what make Woodstock High such a special place. We have kind, ambitious students being taught by dedicated educators. I aim to put students and staff in positions to grow, affect change, become leaders, and reinvest in the community,” Liuzzi said.

This school year, Woodstock High School was the highest-rated school in McHenry County, according to U.S. News and World Report’s Best High Schools rankings.

“The bar we set for our students is a high one, so we have to insist on total support for our students to make sure they can maximize their potential. Whether that’s teachers helping students, or students helping their peers, we recommit ourselves daily to the goal of helping students achieve excellence,” Liuzzi said.

Liuzzi said he has felt supported and mentored by thoughtful leaders who helped him develop his skills throughout his time in District 200.“Now I have the opportunity to continue that tradition of commitment,” he said.

Liuzzi’s hire was made official on Tuesday, April 28, when approved by the District 200 Board of Education. He will replace Art Vallicelli, who will become an assistant superintendent in Mundelein at the conclusion of the current school year.