Candy’s Creek Cherokee Elementary School is proud to announce Ryan Swartzentruber as its next Assistant Principal. Mr. Swartzentruber, who currently serves as the Operations Coordinator and Attendance Officer at Cleveland Middle School, will assume his new role starting in the upcoming academic year.
Mr. Swartzentruber brings a wealth of experience and a strong educational background to his new position. He was honored as the Teacher of the Year in 2019 and has received three nominations for the same award. He is a three-time Graduate of Distinction and an awardee of the BCPEF Lead Fellow Graduate program. His educational credentials include a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Middle Childhood Education from Mount Vernon Nazarene University, a Master of Arts Degree in Curriculum and Instruction, an Educational Specialist Degree in Leadership, and an Educational Doctorate with a focus on teacher induction programs and retention from Lee University.
In his role at Cleveland Middle School, Mr. Swartzentruber significantly increased student attendance through effective parent communication systems. He also conducted coaching cycles with new teachers to improve classroom management and instructional decision-making. Additionally, he participated in the threat assessment team and training for school safety, managed bus referrals and systems, organized school calendars and reservations, oversaw facility maintenance and cleaning staff duties, and evaluated teachers using the TEAM model.
Reflecting on his new role, Mr. Swartzentruber stated, "I am excited to be able to serve alongside the family at Candy’s Creek Cherokee Elementary. The team at Candy’s Creek has shown a great ability to achieve academic and personal growth through their servant leadership, focus on student learning, and making each day fun for the students. Together, I look forward to continuing to pursue excellence daily through serving our teachers and students to create an environment that continues to foster creativity and curiosity leading to continued student success. I am excited to be a part of ‘The Creek’ and be a Thunderbird!"
Principal Sara Whitener expressed her enthusiasm about Mr. Swartzentruber's appointment, saying, "Candy’s Creek Cherokee Elementary School is excited to have Ryan Swartzentruber join our staff in the role of assistant principal. Ryan’s leadership, work ethic, and commitment to high-quality instruction make him the best fit for the role. Our students, families, and staff are happy to welcome him to the Thunderbird family!"