The surprise move marks an abrupt end to Nicholas Reynolds’ four-year leadership of the Catholic college-prep school in Santa Rosa.
Cardinal Newman High School in Santa Rosa has parted ways with its principal of four years, Nicholas Reynolds, a surprise move that comes just days into the new school year.
In a statement sent to The Press Democrat on Friday afternoon, the high school’s Interim President Linda Norman said the school would not share additional details about Reynold’s departure “out of respect for privacy.”
Norman did make clear that Reynolds’ removal “is not related to any illegal activity or misconduct.”
“We understand that leadership transitions can raise questions, and while we are not able to comment further, we want to reaffirm that Cardinal Newman High School remains in a strong position,” Norman wrote.
Reynolds could not be immediately reached for comment.
In the interim, Catherine Eggleston and Maryanne Berry will replace Reynolds as co-principals. Norman described the pair as “highly respected longtime leaders who bring deep ties to our school and a strong commitment to our students.”
Eggleston has held multiple roles at Cardinal Newman since 2011, where she served as a director of orientation and taught social science for 14 years before transitioning to dean of students two years ago.
Berry spent 20 years as the school’s English department chair before transferring into her most recent role over the last two years as the vice principal of academics.
The Catholic college prep school is one of more than a dozen schools affiliated with the Diocese of Santa Rosa, overseen by Bishop Robert Vasa. Annual tuition for the 2025-26 school year is $23,400.
“Together with our faculty, staff, and administration, we remain committed to sustaining Cardinal Newman’s strong foundation as we move forward in our mission of providing an exceptional education rooted in faith, service, and community,” Norman said.
Check back for updates on this developing story.
Editor’s Note: This story has been revised to correct a misspelling of Interim President Linda Norman’s first name.
Report For America corps member Adriana Gutierrez covers education and child welfare issues for The Press Democrat. You can reach her at Adriana.Gutierrez@pressdemocrat.com.