Owensboro Public Schools has named Rocky White as the next Director of Alternative Programs; part of that role includes serving as principal of Emerson Academy. White will replace Kevin Thompson, who has accepted a position as the district’s Director of Pupil Personnel effective July 1.
White has served OPS for the past 14 years, the last 4 as assistant principal of Owensboro Middle School. He previously taught grades 5-8 and oversaw the district’s night school and credit recovery programs. White began his career in education at Breckenridge County Schools, where he was a special education teacher from 2004-2009. White also served in the United States Army prior to his career in education.
“I truly appreciate the confidence placed in me for this position by (OPS Superintendent Dr. Matthew Constant), and the OPS administrative team,” White said. “I have spent most of my adult life preparing students to be productive members of our community. I began this journey in the service of our country in the US. Army, and continued doing so into my career as an educator. I feel a deep commitment to our students will continue to help them achieve even through difficult obstacles that might be in their way.”
In addition to his role as principal, White will work closely with the Director of Pupil Personnel and other district staff to ensure that students in alternative placement receive a quality, achievable education as they pursue graduation.
“I am excited for this new opportunity to work with our OPS students, and the OPS alternative education staff in helping students develop the requisite academic, social, and workforce skills to be successful after leaving our school system,” he said.
Having experience in different careers is something that Constant thinks will make White a perfect fit for the position.
“Rocky brings a great story with him to the position,” Constant said. “His military experience coupled with his experience as a master teacher in the classroom along with this assistant principalship at OMS makes him a perfect fit for the position. He is passionate, has many innovative ideas for us to consider, and is ready to hit the ground running.”
