My name is Mrs. Bess Huffman and I was born and raised in Lancaster, Ohio, but the majority of my family resides here in the Hocking Hills. I grew up attending St. Mary's Elementary and Fisher Catholic High School but ultimately graduated from Bloom Carroll High School. After graduation I moved to Andros Island, Bahamas where I gained certification in SCUBA, sailing, open water kayaking, and open water emergency aid and rescue.

Upon returning to Ohio I obtained my associates degree at Hocking College and then received an academic scholarship to attend the University of Rio Grande. I graduated with my bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education and Development with a minor in Behavioral Psychology from Rio in 2009. I was hired that same year here at St. John. I taught 1st and 2nd grade for five years before becoming the kindergarten teacher for another 5 years. I was then hired as the principal in 2021. 

I am blessed with my amazing husband Cole and we reside here in the Hocking Hills with our two beloved cats, George and SIssy. In our free time we like to camp, hike, kayak, attend concerts and travel. I am also an avid reader and love to relax with a great book.

I am blessed to work at such a wonderful and unique little school and look forward to my futuer here at St. John.