New Principal Greets Students at Lander Elementary

There will be a new principal when classes start today at Lander Elementary School. Jeffrey Legan, who was assistant principal at , will now take over at Lander.

"When I grew up, I went to this elementary school, which is kind of cool," he said.

Legan also graduated from Mayfield High. It was during his time there that he discovered his desire to become a teacher.

"I was part of the Tutor Friends. Basically we went and helped out in classes," he said. "I just knew at that point that I wanted to become a teacher."

He had done his student teaching at Mayfield, but was first hired in the Williamsburg Local School District, near Dayton. When he was called about an opening in Mayfield, he was happy to come back close to home.

"At first at the high school it was a little strange to walk in some of my old classrooms. It brought back a lot of memories," Legan said.

After eight years as a math teacher, he spent the last four years doling out discipline as assistant principal.

"Of course, it was stressful. At the same time, I loved doing it," he said.

Legan said he built a lot of good relationships with students, including some who got into a bit of trouble.

"One student came back to thank me," he said. "I was strict, but tried to counsel him along. It was very rewarding."

He said it was difficult to leave Mayfield High for the position at Lander.

"It was a tough decision because I love Mayfield High School," Legan said. "But professionally, I want to challenge myself."

Legan said he's excited about the chance to build and create programs with students. As for their parents, he said they can expect to be in contact with him and to have their children treated fairly.

"I'm going to treat their kids essentially the way I want my kids to be treated," said Legan, who has children ages 4 and 6.

He doesn't see himself as someone who would make children afraid to go to the principal's office. "I don't want to make any of the little kids cry," he said. "I don't feel intimidating by any means."

However, he added that he his role as principal requires firm decisions that might not always be popular.

Legan said he's always wanted to be a principal and is very enthusiastic about the new school year.

"I feel so comfortable where I'm at right now," Legan said. "I couldn't be much happier."