South Putnam has its new leader, as Tona Gardner has been selected as the new principal for South Putnam Middle and High School.

Gardner replaces Levi Yowell, who 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.

As for Gardner, she began her career as a high school English teacher at South Putnam in the fall of 2000, and recently served as assistant principal. 

"I chose to be an English teacher, because I have always appreciated the power of language.  Words connect us.  They allow us to express our perspective and gain empathy and understanding of others.  Language allows us to dream, imagine, organize and create.  As an English teacher, I was able to share an understanding of language with my students. I loved being a teacher.  As my career has evolved, that has remained the foundation of why I work in a school," Gardner told The Putnam County Post.

After 22 years at the same school, Gardner admits there are many things that makes South Putnam a special place to teach and learn at. 

"South Putnam is special because of its staff, students and families.  People are known.  Staff choose to be here, because they believe in what they do, and they are willing to work hard in a place where they know they are making a difference.  Families and students love South Putnam because it is their second home.  They would tell you that they are often at school more than in their houses.  When you spend that much time together, doing life together, you want to do it with people that you know care about you, and remember you, and are glad you are there.  You want to be there with your South Putnam family," Gardner acknowledged.    

Gardner said in her experience, administration is a "very different job."

"I combine my understanding of teaching and educational policy to cast vision and make decisions that guide yearly and day-to-day operations of the school.  I make decisions at our particular school with our specific staff at this moment of time with our unique students.  Decisions are not generic. I walk out daily school life with teachers and students.  I sit in classrooms, talk in the hallways, go to ball games and concerts and plays and competitions.  I live in the community.  I feel very blessed to have South Putnam as my home school.," Gardner said. 

And, the new principal has a message to anyone considering education as a career path -- do it. 

"I highly recommend education as a profession.  It is demanding, but it is even more rewarding.  It is possible to combine your job with your purpose.   Almost everyone remembers experiences from school.  Great teachers and coaches and counselors connect to students and make them feel seen, heard and understood.  They help students build their understanding, experience success, and navigate failure and uncertainty.  Educators get to build memories with students.   There is a lot of hope in being connected to students,because they are the ones who will be building future solutions," she said. 

As she embarks on her new role, Gardner said she has two goals for students at South Putnam -- to ensure a positive, memorable and life shaping school experience and to prepare graduates for the next stage of their lives. 

"Middle and high school years are an important time.  Students are figuring out their role in the world and building relationships they will remember for the rest of their lives.  South Putnam already has a strong tradition of excellence and community connectedness.  We will continue to build on those traditions and create even more unforgettable opportunities for students that they can also share with their families.  Additionally, we will clarify how high school is an on-ramp to adult life.  Graduates will leave with more than a diploma.  All students will be enrolled in postsecondary education, enlisted in the armed forces or employed in a full-time job.  Though this has been a goal, we will increase success for students by strengthening our partnerships," Gardner said. 

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