Daniel Mattingly will take the reigns as the next principal at West Marion Elementary School. Mattingly, who has taught agriculture at Marion County High School for the past 12 years, will take over for Robby Peterson who was recently hired as the principal at Marion County High School.
“Mr. Mattingly has proven to be a dedicated teacher, FFA advisor, and SBDM member during his time in MCPS,” Superintendent Taylora Schlosser said. “His dedication to students and his strong local ties to Marion County make him an ideal candidate to lead West Marion Elementary School.”
Mattingly sees his new role as one to continue the success WMES is known for.
“At West Marion, I want to continue the tradition of excellence in servant leadership from previous administrators and partnership with an exceptional and dedicated staff,” Mattingly said. “I look forward to fostering that West Marion ‘Can Do’ attitude. I look forward to the challenge.”
Part of Mattingly’s interest in applying for the position stemmed from his personal connection to the community.
“That’s the thing about West Marion -- it’s a true community school,” Mattingly said. “The community embraces that school and wants to see it do well. So I’m excited to be working with the staff, the parents, and the community to continue to do great things [...] I’m excited to lead a school that’s near and dear to my heart.”
Mattingly also noted the position was well-suited for his talents.
"The fit was right for my skill set, and I’m just very fortunate to be able to have this opportunity because this opportunity doesn’t come around very often. So I want to take that leap.”
While at Marion County High School, Mattingly also served as the co-advisor for the FFA program. During his tenure, the FFA organization nearly doubled in membership.
“I'm so thankful, grateful, and appreciative to have been an agriculture teacher and FFA advisor to an amazing bunch of students, executive team members, parents and community members,” Mattingly said. “I also am appreciative and blessed to have been part of the Marion Co High School faculty for the past 12 years.”
Before joining MCPS, Mattingly taught agriculture at Nelson County High School for seven years.
Mattingly and his wife, Sarah, have three children who attend Marion County Public Schools: Caleb, 14, Grace, 11, and Amelia, 6.
