Principal John Yonker announced Friday he will be leaving McNeil High School. After three years of work at McNeil, Yonker is moving on to serve as the Director of Educational Support for RRISD.

“The decision to leave McNeil is the most difficult decision I have had to make in my 25-year career,” Yonker said. “I have enjoyed every minute of my McNeil experience.”

Associate Principal Courtney Acosta will begin service as the school’s Interim Principal on Sept. 2 until Yonker’s replacement is determined.

“Having worked with Mrs. Acosta every day for the past three years, I have seen her passion for students and her leadership abilities,” Yonker said. “I am confident that McNeil High School will continue to move forward both immediately and in the future.”

Although Yonker will no longer be the campus principal, he will continue to serve and support the school and the community. Yonker will participate as a Maverick parent and will serve as a point of contact with the City of Austin in order to to develop procedures and make adjustments until the road construction project is completed.

“During my three years at McNeil,  I have worked with the finest students, most talented faculty and staff, and most supportive community in the state of Texas,” Yonker said. “It is for these reasons I am convinced that McNeil will continue to provide not only a World Class education but also a World Class experience to each and every Maverick.”