Free State High School will see three educators move into new positions starting in July, including one hire from outside the district.
According to a news release from the school district:
• Amanda Faunce, current assistant principal/athletic director who joined Free State in 2018, has been selected as associate principal.
She previously served as an assistant principal for eight years, athletic director for three years, and activity director for five years at Olathe East High School, according to the release.
“As I transition into the role of associate principal, my goal is to take the same work ethic I have dedicated to serving as athletic director and provide our hard-working staff with a strong system of support through collaboration and professional development,” she said in the release. “I am extremely appreciative of this opportunity to grow professionally. I look forward to working with our staff and students to showcase Free State’s core values of respect, responsibility, and excellence.”
• Jered Shaw, who is currently an assistant principal at Leavenworth High School, will take over the position of assistant principal/athletic director.
Shaw previously served seven years as an assistant principal, instructional coordinator/team leader, history teacher, and coach in Lincoln, Nebraska, according to the release.
“I’m thrilled to have the opportunity to serve the Free State students, staff, and community as a member of the administrative team,” Shaw said in the release. “Free State has a strong tradition of achievement, both academically and athletically; and I am looking forward to being a part of and supporting that strong culture. I can’t wait to be a Firebird!”
• Tina Mitchell, who has served as a Free State counselor for 11 years, will succeed retiring assistant principal Jeff Harkin.
Mitchell also served as a counselor at West Middle School for five years and a district prevention specialist for all four middle schools for six years, according to the release.
“As an assistant principal at Free State, I look forward to continuing to strive to help all students realize their full potential,” Mitchell said in the release. “I am excited and honored about the change in my role. My goal and mission will remain the same.
“I, like many others, believe education is one of our greatest assets and that it provides endless opportunities for those who are fortunate enough to attain an education. I am most excited about continuing to impact positive change at Free State at a different level and in a different way.”
As the district previously announced, Myron Graber will retire as principal, and Amy McAnarney, the current associate principal, has been selected to fill that role. The administrative team will also include Matthew Renk, assistant principal.
All changes are pending school board approval.
Don’t miss a beat … Click here to sign up for our email newsletters
Click here to learn more about our newsletters first
More USD 497 personnel changes:
Nathan Kramer / Lawrence Times
