Warsaw schools have experienced many changes this year, including adjusting to COVID restrictions and new teachers. But one of the biggest changes has come in the form of changes in the position of the district superintendent. The district has done many interviews to find a new superintendent that will only benefit and advance the district.
“I hope that decisions are made in the best interest of students and also the longevity of our school district,” high school assistant principal Cody Wright said about the newly hired superintendent, Scott Gemes.
After the sudden summer resignation of superintendent Dr. Shawn Poyser, former Warsaw administrator, Dr. Tony Berry had stepped in and finished off the first semester giving the students and staff a solid ground until they could find another replacement. After the first semester was up, Dr. Tony Berry’s job was over and another former Warsaw administrator, Dr. Brent Depee took over.
Dr. Brent Depee came out of retirement to dedicate his time to Warsaw as the second interim superintendent.
“I have 15 years of superintendent experience and it’s kind of like riding a bike. Once you learn the ‘ongoings’ of the superintendent role, it’s pretty easy to pick back up with the job. The people here have made the transition easy,” Depee said.
Depee was a former Warsaw administrator and former Osage school superintendent. Depee explained that he had no hesitation when he heard that Warsaw was in need of some help with the past experience he had with Warsaw.
“In 1995, I had the opportunity to come to work for Dr. John Boise and coach Randy Morrow. I took a $3,000 pay cut to move here. It was one of the best decisions of my life. The best part of my educational career was the 11 years I spent as a teacher/coach/administrator in Warsaw,” Depee said.
Depee will only be the district leader for the second semester at Warsaw; his term will be temporary until new superintendent, Scott Gemes, begins next year.
Depee has set many plans and goals for himself that he wants to accomplish before his term is up.
“I always try to leave a job better than when I found it. I will produce a balanced budget that provides for the needs of the district, as well as attract and hire the best staff possible. I want to make the transition for Mr. Gemes to be as easy as possible!,” Depee said.