Principal Introduction-Josh Valentine

Principal Introduction- Josh Valentine

Welcome back HCMS,

I am excited to start another school year on the hilltop! Below is a little about me...

Where I'm from...

I was born and raised in Corbin, KY on a farm where we raised tobacco, cattle, and hay. Even though I hated farm work when I was a kid, now as an adult, I appreciate it more than ever. I'm grateful for my parents that believed in developing my work ethic and for teaching me morals and values I have today.

My education…

I’m a 2004 graduate of Lynn Camp High School where I played baseball and football and was also a member of the Academic Team and FBLA. I started playing baseball in college (Union College) but quickly realized that it was time to hang the cleats up because my athletic ability could only take me so far 😉 I decided to transfer to Eastern Kentucky University and graduated in 2008 with a teaching degree in Social Studies Education. I would also go on to get my Masters Degree from Union College and my Principalship from Northern Kentucky University.

My Education Background....

I started teaching in 2009 at South Laurel HS and got my first real dose of the real world when my job got cut. As a young man in his early 20s, I decided to apply for teaching positions throughout the state. I landed in Cynthiana, KY at Harrison County High School. I had planned to move back home after the first year but I quickly realized this place was special and made it my home. I taught at the High School for 8 years teaching AP United States Government, Freshmen Civics, and United States History. I also served as Social Studies Department. Chair, coached baseball and the academic team, and was MS Athletic Director 4 years. I decided to look into administrative positions and was hired at McNabb Middle School to serve as Assistant Principal. I was in Montgomery County one year when the Assistant Principal position opened at HCMS. I could not pass up the opportunity and luckily was hired and I’ve been at HCMS ever since (7 years). Harrison County Middle School is like home for me and I love it here. This will be my 2nd year as Head Principal.

Family....

My family and I reside in Cynthiana I have been married to wife, Holly for 10 years. We have two daughters (Gabby and Avery) that keep us busy and on the move!

What to expect from me?

  H - Hardworking and Honest

  C - Confident and Compassionate

  M - Motivated and Mindful

  S - Safe and Successful 

Above is our school mission statement and qualities we would like each student at HCMS to possess. We will work hard as a school to give your student a high-quality education, keep them safe, and to make them better young people. I realize we only have your student a limited number of hours and days each year and I know it will take a partnership between the school, the student, and the guardian to make sure they reach their full success. We look forward to working with you….

Sincerely,

Mr. Valentine