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Gretchen Pontious DHS Principal

At the June 12, 2023 Board of Education meeting, Gretchen Pontious will be recommended as the next Principal at Derby High School, beginning her duties on July 1.

Pontious served as a teacher and department chair at Derby High School for five years before moving to Park Hill Elementary, where she has led their school as Principal for the last three years. Prior to her time in Derby, she was a Math Teacher in Rose Hill for two years, Center Director at Mathnasium for one year and a Math Teacher in Arkansas City for three years. Her husband, Mitchell, is a teacher and coach within the school district and their three children attend Derby Public Schools.

Pontious graduated from Kansas State University in 2009 with her Bachelors of Arts in Elementary Education. In 2016, she earned her Masters of Arts in Educational Theory and Practice from Arkansas State University, followed by her Building Leadership Endorsement in 2020 from Fort Hays State University.

“I am thrilled to have the honor of returning to Derby High School and serving as the school’s next Principal,” Pontious said, “I look forward to this new role and supporting our students, staff and community. Leading a new team of Assistant Principals, continuing to instill traditions, consistent communication and ensuring academic success are a few of my top priorities. Green is magic!”

Earlier in May, a survey was sent to students, staff, families and community members to determine the desired characteristics of the next Derby High School principal. The following were the top priorities identified:
• Engages actively with students, staff, parents and community.
• Promotes positive student behavior and fosters a safe learning environment.
• Takes feedback into consideration and actively listens to others.
• Leads by example and maintains accountability for students and staff.
• Respects and celebrates Derby High School’s tradition and history.

“On behalf of Derby Public Schools, I would like to extend my appreciation to the many individuals who served on interview committees, attended the candidate meet and greets as well as completed the key characteristics survey,” Heather Bohaty, Superintendent of Schools, said. “Gretchen is a phenomenal leader and we are fortunate to have her step in to lead Derby High School.”