Shepard recommended as kindergarten principal

POST FALLS - James Shepard, a Post Falls special education teacher for the past 11 years, will be recommended as the new principal of Frederick Post Kindergarten.

If Superintendent Jerry Keane's recommendation is approved by the board during Monday's school board meeting, Shepard will replace Kandi Kuck, who was hired as the new principal at Seltice Elementary in June.

At Seltice, Kuck replaced Barney Brewton, who retired.

Shepard has taught at Mullan Trail Elementary, Post Falls Middle School and most recently River City Middle School. He also oversees the district's middle school summer program.

The kindergarten principal job also includes being a Title 1 teacher.

"James' background with special education will be very helpful regarding making the transition to kindergarten," Keane wrote in a memo to the school board. "The skills necessary to be a successful special education teacher will translate well with his new responsibilities in Title I reading as well.

"As a teacher leader, James has shown that he is able to work with a team and provide guidance when necessary."

Shepard, a Post Falls High graduate, has also been a cross-country coach for the district.

A district committee interviewed three candidates before forwarding its recommendation to Keane, who then interviewed Shepard.

"I was impressed with his maturity, leadership knowledge and passion during his interview," Keane wrote.

Shepard said he looks forward to serving the district in a new capacity, pending board approval.

"I am grateful for this opportunity to work with the caring and dedicated staff at Frederick Post Kindergarten," he said. "I look forward to being a part of an already successful school."