Shelly Wheeler

Saint Dominic Academy has announced that Shelly Wheeler, currently a science and math teacher at the school, has been named the new principal of the Auburn Campus, which includes the school’s seventh through twelfth grades. She replaces Joline Girouard, who will assume a new position at the academy focused on implementing the school’s new strategic plan and identifying opportunities to improve the student experience. Wheeler will assume the role of principal on July 1.

“We are very fortunate to have found a well-respected educator like Mrs. Wheeler to offer her voice, creativity, and passion for Catholic education as the new principal at the academy,” said Saint Dominic Academy president Donald Fournier. “I have seen the way she connects with all of her students as a teacher. She is a classroom innovator who displays great leadership skills. I have no doubt she will be a fine administrator.”

“Mrs. Wheeler holds her students to a high level of accountability and encourages them to take advantage of the academic and spiritual benefits of the academy,” said Jim King, superintendent of Maine Catholic Schools. “She has made a real difference in the lives of her students as a teacher and I am certain she will continue to do so as principal.”

“I am eager to apply my Catholic faith and my classroom experience in the new role of principal,” said Wheeler. “I am an active member of Prince of Peace Parish in Lewiston and have chosen to educate my own children in Catholic schools. I have observed firsthand how these schools are centered in faith, community, and service, and I am thrilled to assist in leading the academy to new heights of excellence inside and outside the classroom.”

Wheeler is completing her first year as a science and math teacher at the academy’s Auburn campus. Prior to arriving at Saint Dominic, she was a math teacher at Oak Hill High School in Wales from 2004 to 2015. While at the school, she was the chairperson of the Oak Hill High School Leadership and Organization Committee for the New England Association of Schools & Colleges. Wheeler also spent two years as a math teacher at Winslow High School.

In addition, Wheeler served for six years (2009-15) as an AP statistics reader, one of only 500 college professors and high school instructors worldwide to read and score AP statistics exams. She earned a bachelor’s degree in secondary education from the University of Maine at Farmington and a master’s degree in education from the University of New England.