Triad students and parents will recognize several new administrators at the district next school year.
At the Board of Education meeting Thursday, the board voted unanimously to approve voluntary transfers of Elementary Principal Lee Claypool to director of student services and Director of Academic Programs Patrick Johnson to elementary principal.
The Board also approved the resignation of High School Social Studies Teacher Jason Malone, who immediately received a two-year contract as the district’s athletic director/dean of students.
The shifts follow the resignations of Director of Student Services Erin Webb, who is leaving the district after several years, and Athletic Director/Dean of Students Nick Withrow, who was hired prior to this academic year.
Each of the three new administrators have built their careers at Triad.
Claypool began her teaching career at Triad in 1993 as a vocal music teacher. In 2007, she was promoted to elementary principal, a role she has held since.
As principal, Claypool helped guide the expansion of intervention services for the district’s youngest, at-risk students.
Through the creation of the “Flood Team,” a greater number of students were able to receive specialized instruction in smaller groups, which resulted in improved test scores.
A statement from the district referred to Claypool as a “positive leader and role model for all,” adding that she is “creative, engaging and supportive of students, staff and her colleagues.”
Johnson, who is a Triad alum, was hired in 2006 as a social studies teacher before he transitioned into the role of director of academic programs.
In that role, he focused on students’ post-high school readiness by working to offer career exposure through everything from career fairs to internships to job shadowing. He also helped integrate career pathways into the district’s curriculum.
“During his career at Triad, Mr. Johnson has gained over 10 years of experience tutoring students, coaching various sports and as an active member of the data team and building leadership team,” according to a statement from the district.
Malone began his teaching career at Triad as a substitute teacher in 2001 before accepting a middle school social studies teaching position in 2002. In 2006, he transferred to a high school teaching position, which he has held since.
Malone is also a Triad graduate.
Last year, Malone helped share an initiative with other teachers through which he identified students to receive additional, special instruction during their advisory period in order to boost test scores.
Malone also has over 10 years of experience as senior class advisor and an active member of the building leadership team. He also has over 15 years of combined experience as a coach at the middle and high school levels.
“He is someone that kids greatly respect and is excited for his new adventure,” the district included in a statement.
The shuffle in positions leave one role currently unfilled, director of academic programs.
Superintendent Vickie Maruniak said Thursday that officials will interview three internal candidates for Johnson’s former role.
She said they will be asked to give presentations specific to Triad’s current situation and potential future strategies, but will also be evaluated on whether they bring a similar passion to the position that Johnson did.