George resigns after 19 years as SCMS principal

By Rod Haxton, editor

In an unexpected move, longtime Scott City Middle School Principal Neal George has submitted his resignation effective June 30.

George’s decision was revealed to the board of education in executive session on Monday evening shortly after the board had agreed to extend his contract and that of the other building principals for another year.

“I appreciate the board’s support and confidence, but I felt the time was right,” says George. “There’s no animosity. My biggest regret is that I feel like I’ve let my staff down, but this seemed like the right time to leave.”

George, 54, has been in education for the past 32 years, starting as a shop teacher for one year in Grinnell, followed by 10 years as an instructor at Logan. He served as superintendent for the Natoma school district before accepting the SCMS position in the fall of 1993.

“I can’t think of a better place to be an educator,” notes George. “This community cares a lot about its kids and the quality education they receive. The support we receive from the community is tremendous.”

In his resignation letter, George expressed his appreciation “to the community of Scott County for allowing me to work with the finest educators and students in the State of Kansas.”

George emphasizes “it’s my teachers who make me look good.”

He has no definite plans upon his early retirement except to remain in Scott City. His wife, Judy, will continue teaching at Scott City Elementary School and the youngest of their four children, Taylor, is a sophomore at SCHS.

While George has submitted his resignation letter, the board of education will need to meet in special session to accept it and begin the process of hiring the next SCMS principal.