First principal named for IMPACT Center for Leadership and Innovation

BOWLING GREEN, Ky. – The Warren County Public School District named Dr. Cody Rich the first principal of the IMPACT Center for Leadership and Innovation on Monday.

According to a release by the district, since July 2022, Rich has served as the principal of Jennings Creek Elementary School.

He is a known culture builder; in his first two years as principal, Jennings Creek Elementary obtained FranklinCovey Leader in Me Lighthouse status, researched and incorporated new educational trends and instructional strategies to optimize education effectiveness, and cultivated positive relationships between community members, students and teachers.

Prior to being hired as the principal,Rich was the assistant principal of Warren Central High School, where he supervised and evaluated teaching and support staff, provided administrative support and leadership for school operations, and championed school-wide social-emotional learning initiatives. Rich has also served as a high school biology teacher, varsity boys head and assistant basketball coach, varsity girls head basketball coach and varsity head track coach.

Since June 2020, through Western Kentucky University, Rich has also been a mentor for aspiring principal candidates.

Rob Clayton, Superintendent of Warren County Public Schools, stated, “Dr. Rich’s experience as a school administrator, teacher and coach will serve him well as he transitions into the IMPACT Center for Leadership and Innovation principal position. His leadership experience at both the elementary and secondary level, as well as his success in building community and industry partnerships resulting in expanded student learning opportunities, provides him a unique lens to lead the IMPACT Center. His passion and belief in all students is contagious and his tremendous work ethic will be instrumental in developing this state-of-the-art Center. Cody understands the importance of developing positive relationships and cultivating an inspiring culture for students, faculty and staff members and I am confident in his commitment to ensuring safety, achievement, and opportunities for all.”

Upon learning of his selection as principal, Rich said, “I am truly honored and thrilled to be named the first principal of the Impact Center for Leadership and Innovation. This unique opportunity allows me to bring my passion for transformative education and servant leadership to a pioneering institution dedicated to shaping future leaders. I look forward to working with a dynamic team as well as community partners to create an environment that fosters innovation, critical thinking, and leadership skills in our students. Together, we will cultivate a community where every student is empowered to make a meaningful impact on the world. I am excited to embark on this journey and contribute to the groundbreaking work at the Impact Center. I would like to thank Mr. Rob Clayton and the hiring committee for believing in me as we continue to work with stakeholders to accomplish many great things to best serve our students.”

While at WKU, Rich earned his doctorate of education in education leadership (2022), a Rank 1 in educational administration (2019), a masters of arts in secondary education (2016) and a bachelor of science in biology and chemistry (2014). He is also expected to obtain his superintendent certification in August 2024.

Rich will assume his new responsibilities on July 1, 2024.