Glasgow Independent Schools announces new principal for South Green Elementary

GLASGOW, Ky. — Glasgow Independent Schools is welcoming a new principal for South Green Elementary, one the district says is a “familiar and respected leader whose roots run deep within the district and community.”

According to Glasgow Intendent Schools, Matt “Shep” Shepherd attended South Green Elementary and graduated from Glasgow High School in 2002. He continued his education at Western Kentucky University, earning a bachelor of music in 2014. He later obtained a master’s in music and teacher leader certification in 2017, followed by a Rank I in educational leadership in 2023.

Shep began his career in education at Highland Elementary in 2014 as a K–5 general music teacher, where the district says he quickly “distinguished himself through student engagement and program excellence.” During his tenure, officials say he led the Beta Group talent team to national championships in 2017 and 2018, expanded participation in the school’s children’s choir to more than 72 fourth- and fifth-grade students, and was honored as the KMEA 3rd District Music Teacher of the Year in 2017.

In 2018, he transitioned to Glasgow Middle School, where he taught general music, choir and strings. While there, he launched the school’s Modern Band program, led students to three grand champion Beta Group talent awards, and guided the creation of a mural in the newly renovated choir room showcasing acclaimed local musicians.

In 2023, Shep began his administrative career as Assistant Principal and Preschool Coordinator at Allen County Primary Center. In this role, he led efforts that resulted in the preschool earning a 5-star quality rating in its first year of implementation, helped develop and implement a new intervention model, and expanded student opportunities by establishing three new related arts classes: STEM, performing arts and handwriting.

As principal of South Green Elementary, the district says he brings “a proven track record of instructional leadership, a passion for the arts and a deep commitment to fostering a positive, student-centered learning environment.” School officials say his “unique blend of classroom experience and administrative leadership positions him well to continue the tradition of excellence at South Green.”

“We are excited to welcome him back to South Green Elementary in this leadership role,” said the Glasgow superintendent, Dr. Chad Muhlenkamp. “His connection to our schools, dedication to students, and innovative mindset make him an outstanding choice to lead the Scotties forward.”

Glasgow Independent Schools says it looks forward to the continued growth and success of South Green Elementary under Shepherd’s leadership.