Superintendent Dr. Peter Sanchioni is pleased to announce the appointment of Robert E. Young, Jr. as the Principal of Rogers High School. Mr. Young will officially begin his new role on July 27, 2026.
Mr. Young is a highly respected educational leader with deep roots in the Newport Public Schools and more than two decades of leadership experience in public education and military service. Throughout his career, he has demonstrated a steadfast commitment to student achievement, school safety, operational excellence, and collaborative leadership.
Most recently, Mr. Young has served as the Executive Director of Operations for Newport Public Schools, where he has been a key member of the district's leadership team since 2019. In this role, he has overseen district-wide operations, including facilities, technology, safety, emergency planning, and strategic initiatives while working closely with the Superintendent, School Committee, faculty, staff, families, and community partners to ensure the successful operation of the district.
Prior to his current position, Mr. Young served as Director of the Career & Technical Education Center, where he expanded opportunities for students through innovative programming, including the implementation of a P-TECH Early College initiative and strengthened partnerships with the Rhode Island Department of Education and local business leaders.
In addition to his educational leadership, Mr. Young recently retired as a Colonel in the United States Army Reserves, where he led large and complex organizations, managed personnel and operations, and developed a reputation for calm, decisive leadership in high-pressure environments.
Mr. Young earned both his Master of Arts in Education and Bachelor of Science in Physical Education and Health from the University of Rhode Island. He holds Rhode Island certifications as both a Superintendent and Kâ12 Administrator and was recognized with the Newport County NAACP Education Award in 2025.
Superintendent Dr. Peter Sanchioni expressed his confidence in the appointment.
"Robert Young is an exceptional leader who understands Rogers High School, our students, our staff, and our community. His extensive leadership experience, unwavering commitment to students, and proven ability to build strong relationships make him uniquely qualified to lead Rogers High School. Because of his deep knowledge of Newport Public Schools, he will be able to step into the role immediately and provide the stability, consistency, and leadership our school community deserves."
Dr. Sanchioni added that Mr. Young's appointment reflects the district's commitment to ensuring strong instructional leadership while continuing to build a positive school culture focused on academic excellence, student well-being, and community engagement.
As Principal, Mr. Young will lead Rogers High School in advancing student achievement, supporting faculty and staff, strengthening partnerships with families, and preparing students for success in college, careers, and civic life.
"I am honored and humbled by the opportunity to serve as Principal of Rogers High School," said Mr. Young. "Having served the Newport Public Schools for many years, I know firsthand the incredible talent of our students, staff, and community. I look forward to working alongside our faculty, families, and students to build upon the school's strengths while creating new opportunities for every student to succeed."
Newport Public Schools welcomes Mr. Young into his new role and looks forward to his continued leadership and service to the Rogers High School community.