SANFORD – After two years away, Robert Newby is returning home. Newby was named principal at Lee County High School during Tuesday night’s Lee County Schools board meeting.

Newby spent the last two years as principal at East Lee Middle School, his first years leading a school. Prior to leading ELMS, Newby was an assistant principal at LCHS for seven years. In all, he has worked within the LCS district for over 30 years. Newby is also a graduate of LCHS.

“It means a lot coming back to LCHS to lead this great school,” Newby said. “I am excited to work with the staff, students, and community of LCHS.”

“I am confident he will use his proven formula of success to quickly move Lee County High forward towards academic excellence and  create a school environment that allows students to thrive,” said LCS superintendent Chris Dossenbach.

Newby will replace Karen Barnhill after her sudden resignation on June 3.

Newby will begin training with interim principal Cindy McCormic before taking over on July 1.

“It is surreal how my career has gone with LCS,” Newby added. “I can’t wait to get to work.”