A number of administrative changes shook up the leadership at multiple Niles area schools at the start of the school year, with the most recent being a new leader at Ring Lardner Middle School.

Evan Winkler, a former Brandywine teacher, will replace former Ring Lardner assistant principal Joshua Borne, who left to fill the same position at Edwardsburg High School, where he graduated from in 2001.

Borne filled the seat vacated by Ryan Markel, who was promoted to principal when longtime leader Jeff Leslie accepted the position of superintendent in New Buffalo.

“Josh Borne was a good leader,” said Niles Superintendent Dan Applegate. “We will miss his expertise and wish him well.”

Applegate added that he thinks Winkler will be a good addition the Niles leadership team.

“We believe Evan Winkler has all the qualities we are looking for in an administrator,” he said. “He is eager to learn, relates well to students, parents and staff, and has a long history of success in the classroom.”

Before taking the position in the Niles school district, Winkler taught physical education, health, first aid and a number of other topics at Brandywine High School for 10 years.

Winkler says he will miss Bobcat land, but is excited for a new opportunity.

“I was just ready for a new challenge,” he said. “I wanted to grow my profession, and I thought I could make a difference as an assistant principal.”

Winkler also coached several sports teams while teaching at Brandywine, including both the girls and boys varsity soccer teams. He will finish out the fall sports season as boys varsity coach while learning the ropes of his new administrative job.

“He’ll be greatly missed,” said Brandywine principal Pat Weckel. “However he is ready for this opportunity and we wish him the best.”

Weckel said Brandywine is currently in the process of filling the physical education position.

Principal Doug Langmeyer said Winkler’s main responsibilities will be managing student attendance and discipline and handling teacher evaluations.

“Safety and security of our building is a primary part of his job description, and we think very highly of his ability to do that,” he said.

Langmeyer said he has been impressed with Winkler’s desire to get out and meet as many of Ring Lardner’s students as possible during the first few days of school.

“I’m looking forward to working with the students on their disciplinary issues, working to try to change their behavior and keep them safe,” he said. “I’m excited to get to know my staff and help them grow, and I’m very excited for the opportunity to work for Niles Community Schools.”