Ark City USD 470 has hired a new high school principal and assistant principal.
According to the school district Wednesday, Melissa Seacat will be head principal of Ark City High School starting this summer. She replaces Jeremy Truelove, who resigned in December.
Rhonda Wright will serve as assistant principal.
Seacat comes to Ark City from Valley Center, where she currently serves as an assistant principal at the high school.
She obtained her associate’s degree from Cowley College, her bachelor’s from Wichita State, and her Master’s in Educational Leadership from Kansas State University. She has 21 years of experience in education, five of which have been in school administration.
“We are thrilled to welcome Ms. Seacat to our team,” USD 470 Superintendent Dr. Ron Ballard said. “Her fresh perspective, passion for making connections, and dedication to student success help make her a wonderful addition to the high school leadership team. We look forward to seeing her succeed as a Bulldog.”
Seacat said she is eager and ready to meet the students and staff, and become acquainted with community members.
“I am ecstatic to be joining the USD 470 team,” Seacat said. “Looking ahead, I hope to collectively build upon the foundation that has already been established with post-secondary and real-world learning opportunities, as well as foster a school culture that is positive, upbeat, and forward-thinking.”
Wright, who succeeds Evan Burke, is a veteran educator with 34 years of experience, according to USD 470.
The school district said she has 14 years of experience in the classroom, 20 as a school counselor, and three years in school administration.
Wright holds a bachelor’s degree in mathematics education, a master’s degree in student counseling and personnel services from K-State, and a master’s degree in educational administration from Emporia State University.
Currently, she serves as the secondary principal for Southeast of Saline.
“We look forward to welcoming Ms. Wright to our leadership team,” Ballard said. “She has made a wonderful impression on us and her dedication to students will serve us well.”
Wright says she is excited for the opportunity and looks forward to meeting fellow staff, students, and community members.
“I am very excited to join USD 470,” Wright said. “I am looking forward to meeting everyone and working together to create a positive culture that will help students meet their goals.”
