The Wissahickon School Board approved the appointment of James Cairnes as the new Athletics and Activities Director for Wissahickon High School on June 11.  Mr. Cairnes will replace Randy Cuthbert, who served as Athletic and Activities Director since January 2016 and is leaving for a position in another district.

Minus a nine-month stint as assistant principal at Upper Perkiomen High School, Mr. Cairnes has worked with the school district since 1999.  He was first employed as a social studies teacher before becoming assistant principal in 2005 at the high school and, most recently, at the middle school. Mr. Cairnes has also served as assistant coach for the WHS Football Team during three different years and track and field throwing coach.  As part of his duties as Assistant Principal at the Middle School, Mr. Cairnes also oversees the athletics program.

“I am looking forward to building upon the initiatives started by Dr. Cuthbert, and developing our student athletes both academically and on the field. I believe there are many transferrable life skills that are taught through sports and extracurricular activities and want to encourage all of our students to make the most of these opportunities during their WHS tenure,” Mr. Cairnes said.

“Mr. Cairnes’ skills are second to none,” said WHS Principal Dr. Lynne Blair. “His leadership, vision, knowledge, and commitment to our students demonstrated over the last 20 years will provide exemplary support and direction for our programs.”

The school district is seeking applicants to fill the Assistant Principal position at Wissahickon Middle School which will be vacant following Mr. Cairnes transition.