Justin Bogart felt at home in Eudora immediately during his job interview.
“The size of the school is the most enticing for me and the investments that the community has made in the school,” he said of why he applied to be the next EHS principal.
Bogart was selected for the job during Thursday’s School Board meeting following a recent nearly seven-hour interview for the position.
Bogart’s inspiration to pursue a career in education came from his father, who was a teacher and administrator while he was growing up.
After Bogart graduated from Tonganoxie High School, he received his bachelor’s degree from KU and received both a master’s of school leadership and doctorate degree in district leadership from Baker University.
Bogart started his teaching career at De Soto High School for five years before moving to Mill Valley High School where he worked for 15 years. Bogart taught English and coached boys basketball.
He was the associate principal at Leavenworth High School before his current position as an associate principal at Shawnee Mission South.
“Obviously, being an administrator at a big school is a great opportunity, but Eudora really felt right,” he said.
Superintendent Stu Moeckel said Bogart’s strong background in curriculum and instruction and his ability to form long-lasting relationships with the community set him apart as a candidate.
“Justin had some pieces that we really found would help continue to do what we’re doing and improve upon the great culture and the collective efficacy we have in that building,” Moeckel said.
While working in both small and large districts like Shawnee Mission and De Soto, Bogart has experience with managing and navigating changing schools, Moeckel said. This will be useful with Panasonic growth coming to the area.
When he begins at Eudora, Bogart’s top priority is learning the names and stories of staff and students. Bogart said these conversations will give him a lot of understanding and direction about where the high school is and where they would like to go.
“First, to make myself visible to students, staff and the community, so that they know I’m ready to be engaged with them,” he said.
Principal Ron Abel will help ease Bogart into the transition, Moeckel said.
“This is obviously going to be a tough role for anybody to come in and follow a beloved and amazing leader like Ron Abel and what he’s given to Eudora High School and the community,” Moeckel said.
Bogart said he is looking forward to making connections with families and business owners.
“I think the Eudora School District and community has placed their trust in me,” Bogart said. “I look forward to being of service to students, teachers, staff and the community to create great experiences and great memories for the kids.”
Reach reporter Sara Maloney at [email protected]
