Claremore, OK – August 26, 2024 – Claremore High School is excited to announce the appointment of Mr. Derek Short as the new Assistant Principal. A proud alumnus of Claremore High School, Mr. Short brings a wealth of experience, a deep passion for education, and a commitment to fostering a supportive and empowering environment for both students and teachers.
Mr. Short’s journey in education began after graduating from Claremore High School in 2000. He pursued a Bachelor's degree in Biology at Rogers State University, initially drawn to outdoor education. However, the influence of inspiring educators like Don and Claudia Glass led him to obtain his teaching certification, where he discovered his true calling—sharing his love for biology with students.
Over the course of his 17-year career at Claremore High School, Mr. Short has embraced numerous leadership roles. His dedication to student achievement and school improvement is evident through his service on the guiding coalition and interaction committee and, most notably, as the Head Fastpitch Softball Coach. His leadership and dedication to student achievement inspire confidence in his ability to lead.
Mr. Short is also a proud graduate of the first Claremore Public Schools Aspiring Administrators program. This transformative experience broadened his understanding of the district's operations and deepened his appreciation for the collaborative efforts that drive its success. "The program gave me invaluable insights into best practices and the key roles that ensure Claremore Public Schools operates efficiently," said Mr. Short.
In his new role as Assistant Principal, Mr. Short’s primary focus will be cultivating a culture where teachers are empowered to take ownership of each student’s education. "My goal is to be a supportive and caring leader for our students and teachers," he shared. He believes that improving student engagement and participation in school activities begins with being present and supportive. "When the administration and staff model the expectations we want to see in our students, it can inspire them to fully invest in their high school experience," Mr. Short explained.
Mr. Short describes his leadership style as collaborative and consultative, with a strong emphasis on servant leadership. "I believe collaboration fosters a sense of ownership in each team member, encouraging them to contribute to our common goals. I prioritize the team’s success over my own," he stated.
As a Claremore High School alumnus, Mr. Short feels deeply grateful to the teachers and administrators who invested in his education and career. "Stepping into the role of Assistant Principal is a chance for me to give back," he said. "I’m deeply committed to supporting our staff and students, and I’m proud to be part of a district that offers such a wide range of educational opportunities for our students."
Mr. Short looks forward to growing professionally and personally in his new role, and is excited to collaborate with the dedicated administrative team and staff at Claremore High School.
Claremore High School is thrilled to welcome Mr. Derek Short to his new role and anticipates his positive impact on the students, staff, and the broader Claremore community. Every assistant principal is assigned a section of the alphabet; Mr. Short is responsible for A-F; however, all our assistant principals are poised to help our students succeed.