St. Augustine, Fla. – Father Michael Houle, director of secondary schools for the Catholic Diocese of St. Augustine, announced today the appointment of Thomas D. McGlinn as the new principal of St. Joseph Academy in St. Augustine. His appointment is effective with the 2012-2013 academic school year.

McGlinn replaces Michael Heubeck who will retire at the end of this school year after serving St. Joseph Academy for 21 years – 10 years as principal.

“Mr. Heubeck has led this school with energy and diligence for many years – first as a faculty member then as principal – and he has served even more years in Catholic education before coming to St. Joseph Academy. The diocese has been fortunate to have such a faith-filled and capable educational leader in place at St. Joseph Academy over the years,” said Father Houle.

McGlinn comes to St. Augustine from New York where he served as principal of Archbishop Walsh Academy and Southern Tier Catholic Grade School near Buffalo, N.Y.

Prior to moving to New York, McGlinn was a guidance counselor and dean of students at Bishop Verot High School in Ft. Myers, Fla. And he has taught high school math for many years. While at Bishop Verot High School, McGlinn was the school’s soccer and tennis coach. His soccer team garnered three district and two regional championships as well as two final four appearances and a state championship.

His tennis team won five district and two regional championships as well as two state finals appearances.

McGlinn has a bachelor’s degree from St. Joseph University, Philadelphia; a master’s in counseling from McDaniel College, Westminster, Md., and an educational specialist degree in secondary education with an emphasis in educational leadership from Barry University in Miami.

“He brings with him a strong background in educational technology and development” said Father Houle. “We were impressed with his desire to continue the long traditions of St. Joseph Academy while at the same time integrate innovative initiatives that will help maintain the excellent standards that the academy has always been known for. His experience will strengthen the school’s programs to ensure that our students are well prepared for the future within the sort of faith-filled environment and Catholic culture that the academy provides,” he added.