The announcement of a principal resigning in the middle of the school year naturally raises questions within the school community about leadership moving forward. Specifically who would step into the principal role and whether that transition could happen in time for the start of a new semester. The district was able to rely on its existing leadership structure to ensure continuity. Through collaboration and flexibility, Rock Creek has navigated the transition with minimal disruption to daily operations.

Taking on a key role during this period is Kristi Timm, the district’s Assistant Superintendent. Timm has been balancing her responsibilities in the district office while also fulfilling many of the traditional duties of a high school principal. She has been traveling back and forth between offices daily to maintain consistency, visibility, and communication within the building.

“It’s been a pretty smooth transition, and I’m just happy to step in and help continue leadership here in the high school office,” Timm said.

Timm has been part of the Rock Creek district for 8 years, beginning in 2018 as the Curriculum Director and gradually expanding her leadership role over time. She plans to continue serving as Assistant Superintendent while also strengthening her leadership skills by taking college courses in education leadership. Her presence has helped provide stability, especially when paired with support from other administrators.

Alongside Timm, Darwin Thomlinson, the school’s Athletic Director, has taken on additional responsibilities to help keep operations running smoothly. Thomlinson emphasized that the success of the transition has been a shared effort between building-level staff and district leadership.

“I have to give a lot of credit to our district office. They have really stepped up. Superintendent Splichal, Assistant Superintendent Timm both have done a really, really good job of making sure that they’ve turned around and filled in,” Thomlinson said.

As the semester progresses, the collective effort of administrators, teachers, and staff has helped maintain a sense of normalcy for students. Communication has remained clear, and resources have been made available to ensure the school stays on track through the remainder of the 2025–2026 school year.

“I really enjoy being at Rock Creek High School. The kids are great, the staff is great, and I look forward to a really good rest of the semester” Timm said.