Bowen Named Principal of the Year

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By Marlana Smith

  Becoming a principal has been something Shelby County R-IV Middle School Principal Curt Bowen wanted to do if the perfect opportunity presented itself and he felt ready.

  “When I came to South Shelby, I knew right off if I ever became a principal that this is where I wanted to be,” SS Middle School Principal Curt Bowen said.

  Eighteen years ago, Bowen began his career at Macon R-I as the elementary PE teacher. After six years, he began teaching social studies and P.E. at South Shelby. He has also had the opportunity to coach football, basketball and track.

  Bowen has been Middle School Principal for eight years.

  He was awarded the Northeast Missouri Principals Association’s Middle School Principal of the Year in a surprise fashion Tuesday, May 16, 2023.

  “I truly believe this award is for the teachers. I most definitely have the best teachers here and without them, I am not in this position,” Bowen expressed, “I have always believed that if you surround yourself with good people, good things will come of it.

  “It is an honor and definitely something I will cherish forever.”

  Many highlights stand out in Bowen’s career.

  Bowen first mentioned the teachers and administrators. Bowen feels lucky to have worked with the people he has through the years.

  “They are amazing,” said Bowen, “They are always there for each other and care for their students beyond the classroom. It amazes me the amount of time and effort they put into their careers to ensure they see the success of their students.”

  Bowen expressed how many smiles the students have brought him.

  “One of the best things is when I’m outside of school and past students go out of their way to talk to me. To hear they are being successful, see their families, and have them tell me how much they enjoyed school is what it’s all about,” Bowen stated.

  South Shelby has always been a place Bowen wanted to be.

  “To have followed some of the great principals who have been in the position before me is an honor within itself. I definitely want to thank them for making this school the best and the Board of Education for taking a chance on me when they hired me in this position,” Bowen stated.

  Bowen will be honored at the Principal Conference in the fall.