David Walker named principal at Irving College
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Walker accepted the position Tuesday and spent the morning Thursday learning the intricacies of the building from former principal Michael Trevathan, who will step into a new position as Eastside’s principal this fall.
With a bachelor’s degree in music education and a master’s in instructional leadership, Walker said he is ready for the challenges ahead and will begin working in the office next week.
“I love what I do and love working with children,” Walker said of his new role, which had previously involved music instruction at West, Eastside, Bobby Ray, the former Warren County Junior High School and Warren County High School.
“I still have the idealism I had in college – that I can make a difference. And because I think I can make a difference, when we think we can, we really can,” he said. “When you can be that bright spark in a child’s life, that makes everything worthwhile.”
Next month, Walker expects to complete a doctorate program in Christian counseling with an emphasis in family and marital therapy at Covington Theological Seminary in Georgia.
Long term, Walker said he hopes he will be able to follow through with his mission of helping the school’s teachers and staff be energetic and relay a love of learning to their students.
“I want all of the children to see and learn the process of education can be fun. It can be enjoyable and it’s not something they leave behind when they leave here or high school. It’s a quest that lasts the rest of their lives.”
Leaving his six-year position as a music teacher with West Elementary will be difficult, he added, but said he is committed to a new challenge.
Director of Schools Dr. Jerry Hale said he was impressed with Walker throughout the interview process. Walker competed with five others and appeared to be the “best fit” for the school.
“He’s shown very much enthusiasm for the position and we look forward to working with him in the coming year,” Hale said.