Principal Clark’s smooth start

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By Joseph Pratt

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Principal Jeremy Clark has been running Valley Elementary School for a few weeks now, and says he’s finding himself in a smooth transition with a supportive community.

“I am very invested in this school system,” Clark said. “It is a big leap, but I just felt like I was ready to have a larger impact, district-wide, other than in my own classroom.”

Clark has deep roots in the Valley Local School District, being a member of its proud alumni, and having eight years of teaching elementary education to young Indians under his belt.

“Valley has amazing staff, the teachers are so organized and proud to be Valley Indians. Our community members are of a small family and proud of the schools and do what is necessary to be involved in the students’ lives. Our students are dedicated and devoted to their education. Seeing everyone come together in such a way is a very special thing and makes us all proud to be Indians.”

Clark said that there aren’t any current major issues that need his attention, but he will be focusing heavily on student needs and being a support system for teachers to depend on. Having been one of the teachers, he not only knows his staff well, he knows what they need to do their jobs well.

“I want to be able to provide that stability that has been needed here, as far as leadership goes,” Clark explained. “This is my home district and I am just excited to be able to rise up and help in such a way. I feel as though my role as principal is to provide the resources to our teachers and to be here for them and give them what they need. I have taught here for eight years and the teachers are amazing; all of the positive things going on in the school is because of the teachers.”

Clark said that the year started smoothly and has continued the trend as students have settled back into the classrooms.

Clark was officially hired during the July 15 regularly scheduled meeting of the Valley Local School District Board of Education. He was given a two-year contract at $65,000.

Reach Joseph Pratt at 740-353-3101, ext. 1932, or by Twitter @JosephPratt03.

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