By TONY GUERRERO
Hays Post
Meet Jesse Vincent, the new principal at Ellis Junior-Senior High School, focused on building strong connections and bringing fresh perspectives.
After spending the last several years working in central Kansas, Vincent returns to western Kansas to lead future generations of students and be closer to his family.
"I've always felt that Ellis was a prestigious institution, educationally and athletically, and was excited to put my name in the hat," he said.
Vincent graduated from Abilene High School in 1996 and earned his bachelor's degree in physical education and health from Sterling College.
He continued his studies at Fort Hays State University, earning a master's degree in building leadership in 2017.
Inspired by his physical education teacher, Tom Schwartz, Vincent served as his teacher's aide before stepping into Schwartz's role as the PE teacher, his first job in education.
Schwartz currently serves as the principal of Abilene High School.
"That's where I got my start and desire," Vincent said. "Years down the road, I decided that I wanted to continue and move up into the administration role."
Vincent returns to the area after teaching in the Grinnell School District and serving as the principal at Canton-Galva Junior-Senior High School.
Vincent said Ellis High is in a pristine state and doesn't need significant changes, but is eager to work with staff and teachers.
"I'm excited about the veteran staff that I have," he said. "There's a couple of new teachers that I think are going to be strong and good for us as well."
Vincent's daughter teaches fourth grade in Grinnell and is beginning a master's program to become a principal, with Vincent offering his guidance.
Vincent also has two sons attending Colorado State University, both of whom are on the football team. With his sons out of state, Vincent decided to relocate closer to his parents when the opportunity to lead Ellis High arose.
"I look forward to bringing a fresh perspective to this role," Vincent said. "I'm anxious to build relationships with everyone, share my views for the district, and where we're going to go and how we're getting there."
The Ellis USD 388 school district announced Vincent as the new principal in a post.