Kepley Principal Receives Award
by Kami Gumz News Reporter/The Ulysses News on September 30, 2013
Launch the media gallery 1 playerKepley Middle School Principal, Juan Perez, was named Metlife Kansas Middle Level Principal of the Year 2013. The Kansas Association of Secondary School Principals (KASSP) takes nominations every year for Area Principal of the Year, Area Middle Level Principal of the Year, and Area Assistant Principal of the Year.
After receiving several local nominations and letters of recommendation, KASSP selected Perez for the Middle Level Principal award. Also selected from Kansas were Emporia High School Principal Scott Sheldon and Hays High School Assistant Principal Thomas Albers.
Launch the media gallery 2 playerWhile getting lunch during their first day in Washington, Perez and his wife ran into another Kansan, Professional Baseball Umpire Todd Tichenor, who lives in Holcolm. Tichenor invited them to Nationals game that evening, which he was umpiring. Perez said that the game was an “outstanding experience” and a great way to start their time in Washington.
After his Washington trip, which lasted from September 18 to the 21, Perez said, “I’m glad to be home and back to school, but it’s good to know I was one of the 99 others that were recognized.” Along with appreciating the recognition, Perez emphasized the importance of the support he receives at Kepley. “This award couldn’t have happened without a strong staff, great student body, and supportive community,” Perez said. “I wish they all could have been there with me because they deserve this award too. I appreciate everything they let me do here.”
Perez has been the Principal at Kepley Middle School for 20 years. He first started his teaching career as a substitute at Kepley. He then moved to the High School where he taught social studies, sociology, and psychology. He also coached football, wrestling, track, and baseball. From 1997 to 2001, Perez served on the National Federation of High Schools Board. Currently, he is on the Kansas State High School Activities Association Executive Board. Perez truly enjoys working with children, and plans to do so even into retirement. He said, “Even when I retire, I want to work with kids because they are fun and funny. They give you something to laugh about everyday.”