McKim steps into FSHS assistant principal position

Rob McKim may be new to Fort Scott High School, but he has worked in education for more than a decade.

McKim, who was hired by the USD 234 Board of Education to replace former Fort Scott High School Assistant Principal Todd Ferguson, began his new post on Thursday.

According to FSHS Principal Bob Beckham, McKim will make a good addition to the staff at the high school.

"The strength of this school is and always has been the staff," Beckham said. "I'm confident that Rob is going to be a great team member on the staff here."

McKim's work ethic coupled with his vision for youth helped him to stand out from all of the other assistant principal applicants, Beckham said.

"He's a very down-to-earth individual," Beckham said. "He is level-headed, and he has a very good work ethic. The number one reason (he was hired) is he cares about kids. He gives the impression that kids are important."

McKim, raised on a farm in Northeast Kansas, received a teaching degree at John Brown University in Arkansas. After receiving his degree, he taught mathematics for 15 years. His teaching career began in Effingham where he taught math for three years. From there, McKim taught math in Topeka for six years. Most recently, he spent another six years teaching math in El Dorado.

McKim, who received a masters in school administration from Emporia State University, said he is confident his past educational experiences will help him carry out his administrative duties effectively.

"I think I can use my past experiences in the classroom to understand teaching perspectives," he said. "I think I do a pretty good job of listening and determining the best course of action."

In addition to teaching math for the last 15 years, McKim said he has also spent a lot of time coaching various sports.

"I've also coached everywhere I've been," McKim said. "That has provided different opportunities and settings to motivate, discipline and interact with students. I have enjoyed being in education."