After a thorough search and selection process, the Franklin-Simpson High School Site-Based Decision-Making (SBDM) Council has chosen Dr. Byron Darnall as the new principal of FSHS. Dr. Darnall has exceptional experience having served as both an elementary and high school principal, Bureau Chief for Educator Quality with the Iowa Department of Education, an assistant principal and high school teacher. He is currently Principal of Potter Gray Elementary School in Bowling Green, where he has served for the last 5 years.
A native of Kentucky, Dr. Darnall grew up in Meade County. After high school, he went to David Lipscomb University where he earned his undergraduate degree in English. He earned a Master of Arts in Teaching from the University of Kentucky and his Rank I in Educational Administration from Western Kentucky University. In 2015, he graduated from Seton Hall University with a Doctorate in Education Leadership.
“Dr. Darnall rose to the top among a strong group of candidates for the job,” current Superintendent Dr. Jim Flynn said. “He brings a wealth of experience, knowledge and skills to our high school. We look forward to him building on the excellence achieved by Mr. Schlosser, the faculty, staff and students at FSHS.”
Dr. Darnall will follow Tim Schlosser, who was recently named the next Superintendent of Simpson County Schools. “I look forward to working with Dr. Darnall. He will be a great fit for Franklin-Simpson High School, said Schlosser”
When offered the job, Dr. Darnall expressed excitement saying, “It’s an honor to be chosen as the Principal/Head Learner of Franklin-Simpson High School. I will strive to make sure every student knows how much they matter. I look forward to serving this community by connecting with the past and planning for the future.”
The FSHS SBDM Council went through hours of training and preparation, in addition to time reviewing applications, checking references, and conducting interviews. Superintendent Flynn praised the work of the current and incoming SBDM Council Members for their excellent work throughout the process.
The school and district plan to host a “meet-and-greet” event to introduce Dr. Darnall to the community in the near future. Stayed tuned for an announcement in the coming days.