Superintendent of Perry Township Schools
We firmly believe that teachers are among the most influential adults in children’s lives. These dedicated educators set the tone and expectations in the classrooms and have a direct impact on the learning environment. In turn, the building principal sets the tone for the instructional program throughout the facility.
A retirement dinner was recently held for more than 40 people from various departments. Among those honored were support staff, teachers and two principals, both of whom had a positive impact on thousands of students.
Barbara Brouwer served as principal of Southport High School for the past decade, and John Happersberger served as principal at Burkhart Elementary for the past 18 years.
Their schools have received countless awards for academic achievement and extracurricular programs under their leadership. Burkhart received the prestigious National Blue Ribbon Award, which is only presented to a select group of schools for their high levels of academic achievement and programs.
Southport was recently honored by the Advanced Placement group for having so many students excel in various AP classes. Students who are successful in these classes are able to transfer these credits to the college that they plan to attend. I have talked to students who had as much as a year of college completed before walking across the high school graduation stage.
The challenge to find replacements for Mrs. Brouwer and Mr. Happersberger was a bit daunting. A team of teachers, parents and administrators served on the interview teams. Fortunately, Perry Township Schools and the community attract quality people.
Southport Middle School Brian Knight has been named to head Southport High next year. This gentlemen is married to a teacher who grew up in Perry Township, and they have four children, all whom attend township schools.
Burkhart Assistant Principal Darlene Hardesty, also a township resident, has been named Burkhart’s principal.
Proud to be a part of the Perry Township family.
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Southport’s commencement ceremony is at 6 p.m. Friday; Perry Meridian’s is at 8 p.m. Friday.