Heritage Middle School Assistant Principal Kendall Harris has been selected as the next principal of Blendon Middle School. Harris replaces David Baker, who last month was named the district’s executive director, K-8 academic affairs.

“Kendall’s skill set and track record at Heritage are impressive,” said Dr. Dan Good, superintendent. “Those who know Kendall understand that he is an enthusiastic, passionate and creative leader. He brings strengths in many leadership areas, including professional development, relationship building and curriculum development. Kendall will bring a leadership style to Blendon that meshes well with the school community while pushing staff and students to excel in the future.”

Harris has been an assistant principal at Heritage Middle School since 2008 and was a language arts instructor at the school since 2006. He joined Westerville City Schools from Columbus City Schools (CCS) where he taught language arts from 2004-06. Harris also taught social studies/science in Dayton City Schools from 2002-04 and social studies/ science in CCS from 2001-02. Harris earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Elementary Education and his Master of Science degree in Educational Leadership from Wright State University. He holds an Ohio Teaching Certificate for Elementary Education (grades 1-8) and his Principal License for the PreK-12 levels.

“The process to find a new assistant principal at Heritage Middle School will begin soon and the announcement of the chosen candidate is likely to occur over summer break,” Good explained. “We take this process very seriously and will have a high-quality, experienced educational professional joining the Heritage leadership team next year.”

Harris’ selection as principal of Blendon Middle School is part of several recently-announced changes to the Westerville City School District’s leadership structure for the 2010-11 school year. The restructuring does not add any Full-Time Equivalent (FTE) administrative positions, remains within current costs for the district’s leadership team, and better aligns personnel to the goals and priorities within the district’s strategic plan. Continued streamlining of the district’s leadership structure also is being prompted by the need for succession planning as several veteran administrators have retired or soon will be retiring. These new and existing vacancies create an opportunity to implement a management structure that meets future district needs, as well as upcoming state and federal mandates.

“This organizational structure prepares us for the future while remaining within current FTE staff counts and costs for our leadership team,” Good said. “It also allows us to better leverage the knowledge, skills and professionalism of our current management staff while minimizing potential operational disruptions. Finally, it lowers our overhead costs and maintains the quality of services we are able to provide to families, students and the community.”