St. Bede Academy Welcomes New Principal Dr. David Lawrence
Goldie Rapp
St. Bede Academy is proud to announce the appointment of Dr. David Lawrence as its new Principal, effective for the 2025-26 school year.
A seasoned educator, veteran and faith-filled leader, Lawrence brings a deep commitment to academic excellence, student growth and Catholic values.
A resident of Princeton, Lawrence shares life with his wife of 23 years, Katie, and their two sons, Cameron (18) and Sam (14). He grew up in Marseilles and graduated from Ottawa High School before enlisting in the U. S. Navy. There, he served as a Quartermaster aboard the USS Saipan (LHA-2), navigating the ship to many parts of the world. It was during this time of service that he first felt a calling to become an educator.
After his military service, Lawrence earned a degree in elementary education from Northeastern Illinois University and began his teaching career in the Spring Valley Elementary School District. His passion for teaching soon evolved into a calling to lead, so he went on to obtain a Master’s degree in educational leadership and administration from the University of St. Francis, followed by his principal certification. He served as principal at both Ladd Grade School and Lincoln School in Mendota, and later earned a Doctoral degree in school leadership from Concordia University Chicago.
"From the beginning, my goal has always been to serve students, build meaningful relationships and help young people achieve more than they ever thought possible," said Lawrence.
The opportunity to serve at St. Bede Academy also felt like a calling for Lawrence.
“I’ve long admired St. Bede for its legacy, values and mission. The strong Catholic identity and commitment to forming the whole student aligns deeply with who I am and what I believe as an educator and leader,” he shared.
As he begins this new chapter, Lawrence is most excited to immerse himself in the life of the school.
“I look forward to being present in the classroom, at Mass, on the sidelines and throughout the school - getting to know the students, families, faculty and alumni who make St. Bede so special.”
His first-year goals include building trust, fostering open communication and strengthening the school’s Catholic identity.
“I want every student to feel known, loved and challenged to grow into the person God is calling them to be,” he said.
St. Bede Academy warmly welcomes Lawrence to its leadership team and looks forward to a bright future under his guidance.