New St. Edward superintendent knows the turf

The learning curve should be fairly short for the Rev. David Finn, the newly named superintendent of St. Edward Central Catholic School in Elgin.

After all, the 37-year-old Elgin native taught theology part-time from 2003 to 2005 and served as the school’s assistant principal and spiritual director from 2006 to 2008.

Finn said the school prides itself on academic excellence and a great community atmosphere.

“Elgin is my hometown, so I am excited to be back in the area,” Finn said. “First and foremost, St Edward is a great school. I worked there previously, so this is like a homecoming for me. It is a great place to be.”

In between stints at St. Edward, Finn was the spiritual director at Aurora Central Catholic High School for the 2011-2012 school year. Additionally, Finn was superintendent of Newman Central Catholic High School in Sterling, Ill. Ordained in 2003, Finn is also the parochial vicar at Blessed Sacrament in North Aurora.

In a letter to parents, Finn expressed his gratitude and dedication to the school. Finn officially begins his role June 29.

“I want to thank you for placing your trust in us to educate your child,” Finn said in the letter. “Saint Edward is known to be a place of faith filled formation in the teachings of Holy Mother Church, while at the same time being a center of educational excellence. I want you to know that I am committed to this same mission for years to come.”

Finn will succeed the Rev. David Peck, who took on duties of Pastor at St. Rita Parish in Rockford in 2011. Peck was St Edward’s principal and superintendent. Rich Thomas was named principal in 2011. The longtime educator had served as assistant principal and dean of students at the high school since 2006.