Essick Named BIS Assistant Principal

Essick Named BIS Assistant Principal

Bernice Essick. (Provided Photo) (Batesville, IN) – Bernice Essick has been named assistant principal at Batesville Intermediate School (BIS). She’ll join Principal Dana Cassidy’s team for the 2026–27 school year. Essick most recently served as Interim Dean of Students at Batesville Primary School (BPS), where she led schoolwide behavior systems, collaborated closely with teachers and families, and helped strengthen student support structures. Prior to that, she spent seven years as a teacher at BPS, including serving in the district’s Dual Language Immersion program. Throughout her career, Essick has been recognized for building positive relationships with students, staff, and families while developing systems that promote consistency, accountability, and student success. Her background includes leadership in instructional support, school improvement, behavior intervention, data analysis, and collaborative problem solving. Before entering education, she also gained extensive organizational leadership experience with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and the Southeastern Indiana YMCA. “One of the things that stood out most throughout this process was Berni’s heart,” said Cassidy. “She genuinely loves Batesville kids, believes in the work we’re doing, and is deeply committed to this community. Our students deserve adults who will build relationships, set high expectations, and make them feel safe, seen, and supported every day. Berni is exactly that kind of leader. I’m incredibly excited to welcome her to the BIS family and can’t wait to see the impact she’ll have on our students, staff, and families.” Essick earned her School Administration Certification from Indiana Wesleyan University in 2022. She also holds a Master of Arts in Early Childhood Education from Ball State University, along with certifications in Gifted and Talented Education and Transition to Teaching. “I am incredibly honored and excited to serve as assistant principal at Batesville Intermediate School,” said Essick. “Batesville has been home to my family for many years, and I care deeply about our students, staff, and community. I look forward to partnering with our families and BIS Staff to build strong relationships, support every child, and continue the tradition of excellence that makes Batesville such a special place.” Outside of school, Essick enjoys cheering on Batesville students at athletic events, music events, and theater productions and values every opportunity to give back to the community that shaped her. She and her husband, Thomas, are raising their two sons, Levi and Wyatt, in Batesville, where they are active members of the community.