New principals, athletic director named in Spokane district after two leaders retire

Two months after the Spokane High School principal was named the district's next superintendent, a new principal has been named.

Don Gimlen, a teacher, will take over for Kent Doyle, who was named the superintendent. Doyle will replace Della Bell-Freeman, who is retiring.

Gimlen is a retired non-commissioned officer in the U.S. Army. He has taught in Spokane for eight years.

"I started here and hope to finish here. The students are what motivate me. The learning environment and the daily interactions make my heart happy." said Gimlen, in a news release. "I hope to make a meaningful impact in the school, in the community and with our students. Great leaders and educators have influenced my life and shaped who I am today; I hope to provide that same influence to others."

Gimlen has an associate degree from Central Texas College, a bachelor's degree from Missouri State University and a master's degree from Arkansas State University.

Glen Johnson, currently working in the Humansville district, was named the next principal of Spokane Middle School and the district's athletic director.

Johnson will succeed Joel Carey, who is retiring. He has 12 years experience in the classroom and has also coached football, wrestling and baseball.

In Humansville, Johnson was the middle and high school principal and the athletic director. He also taught special education and physical education in Bolivar.

“My family and I are very excited to join the Nest," Johnson said, in a release. "We look forward to building strong relationships in the community, schools, and through athletics."

He has a bachelor's and master's degree from Southwest Baptist University, where he is currently enrolled SBU's specialist and doctorate program.

The 750-student Spokane district is 25 miles south of Springfield in Christian County.

This article originally appeared on Springfield News-Leader: Spokane school district names new principals, athletic director