slideshow

PIEDMONT—This year will certainly feel a little different for the students at Wren High School. That is because, for the first time in more than a decade, Robbie Binnicker won’t be leading the way.

The 11-year Wren High Principal recently accepted a position as Director of Secondary Education with the Anderson One School District. Leaving, however, was bittersweet for Binnicker.

“It was a great experience for me,” said Binnicker. “We had a wonderful group of teachers, staff members, students, and parents. It was just a really unique group that valued education and really worked hard to prepare students.”

Serving as an administrator for Wren provided plenty of learning opportunities, not just for the students, but for Binnicker as well. Binnicker says he will take away some valuable lessons from the school he once called home.

“Probably one of the biggest lessons I learned was just how important each member of that school actually is,” said Binnicker. “From the Custodian, to the Assistant Principal, to the English Teacher, they all play such a vital role in preparing students. Sometimes you don’t appreciate the kind of impact that each person has on the total environment of your school.”

Over the course of 11 years, Binnicker says he and his staff were able to accomplish a lot, but it was recent recognitions, such a being named a Platinum High Achievement High School, that he is most proud of.

“It was a proud time to be named one of the best high schools in the state,” said Binnicker. “That was certainly some recognition that I felt like we deserved based on the work of the students, faculty, parents, and community.”

As Binnicker makes the transition to his new position with the district, he says new opportunities will be on the horizon.

“I certainly loved the time that I spent with Wren, but I’m very excited about the opportunities that a job like this provides,” said Binnicker. “Being able to work with the leadership of the secondary schools certainly provides some great opportunities.”

Binnicker says one of the biggest things he is looking forward to is being able to have an impact on a more broad range of students and faculty in the district.

“We have got some wonderful administrators and teachers in this district,” said Binnicker. “I’m really looking forward to being able to work with a larger group and a wide variety of people on various curriculum and program aspects.”

Nichole Boseman will take over for Binnicker as Principal of Wren High in 2012-2013.