Levi Yowell's path to education was not the most traditional one, as the South Putnam High School principal previously spent time in the business sector. 

After arriving at South Putnam High School in 2019, Yowell is making another change -- this time back to business, as he recently accepted a position in business development for Indianapolis-based Patterson Horth, a general contractor. 

Yowell will serve as a liaison of sorts, as his role will focus on school construction projects and he will serve as a go-between to make sure needs are met. 

His last day with the district will be Dec. 31.

"The professional move that I am making came about because of some positive relationships that led to exciting conversations. This wasn't something that I was necessarily searching for but very excited about the opportunity to learn and continue to serve people. The decision was very difficult - going to miss working directly with kids on a daily basis. I have been so blessed to work with amazing faculty and dedicated staff at South Putnam Middle School and High School, it is always tough to leave a team that has been so good to work with," Yowell told The Putnam County Post. 

The move comes on the heels of Yowell being named the Indiana Association of School Principals District 8 Principal-of-the-Year earlier this year. 

And, while he is leaving the principal's desk and the classroom environment, he leaves with a lot of memories. 

"I hope I still have a lot of career left in me, but I definitely have some awesome memories to this point. A couple that come to mind is having an individual graduation ceremony for one young lady at North Putnam who overcame some big struggles but persevered. Being recognized as the most influential educator a few times by amazing kids was pretty encouraging. I have been fortunate to have two assistant principals named IASP Assistant Principal-of-the-Year and got to celebrate that honor with them. I have also had countless conversations with students, staff and families while sharing laughs and sometimes tears, and those are probably the most important. I am not sure the big moments matter as much as the little moments added together," Yowell said. 

With that said, he still believes public education is an "awesome" career choice for anyone who is positive, motivated and seeking to make a difference. 

"My first belief about education is kids before content, and, so that has to be true for anyone thinking about a career in education. You have to like Suzie more than science and Matt more than math. That belief is what makes all the difference for me," Yowell said.