Greg Conn

Greg Conn started his tenure as Knott County superintendent on Oct. 1. Photo courtesy Knott County Schools

(HINDMAN, KY) – Greg Conn “hit the ground running” when he stepped into his role as superintendent of Knott County Schools on Oct. 1.

“It’s been a whirlwind,” he expressed, “but we are doing a lot of things in the district, hoping to make a change for the better.”

Conn began his career in education as a math teacher in 1994 after earning his bachelor’s degree in education from the University of Kentucky. He taught in secondary education and assisted in coaching basketball and football for 10 years. He later served as a principal in primary education for four years.

Following his time as principal, Conn transitioned to the role of district finance officer, a position he held for 14 years. While serving as the district finance officer, he took on additional responsibilities as assistant superintendent.

When the previous superintendent retired, Conn applied for the position and was selected by the school board in September.

Conn’s passion for education stemmed from his enjoyment of working with students and love for mathematics.

“I just enjoyed teaching, and I know this sounds crazy, but I enjoyed math, and I wanted everyone else to share the same love that I have for mathematics,” he said.

He found teaching rewarding, particularly the chance to make a positive impact on students’ lives and their education.

Driven by a desire to make a difference in his community, Conn said he was motivated to continue advancing through educational leadership roles, “hoping to be a better steward, a better servant for Knott County Schools.”

Respect is an essential part of Conn’s educational philosophy.

“If you treat everybody the way you like to be treated, you will be able to get anything you want across to them, and they will want to learn,” he said.

Conn adopted this value from a high school teacher who addressed students with titles like “Mr.” and “Ms,” fostering mutual respect and professionalism, something Conn has carried throughout his career.

He emphasized that not everyone comes from the same background or has the same opportunities, so it is important to respect others.

Conn said he was inspired to apply for the superintendent position by seeing the dedication and hard work of administrators around him.

“I just want Knott County to be successful, and I wanted to see if I could move Knott County to the next level,” he said.

Conn emphasized high-quality instruction, attendance improvement and fostering a positive culture as his top priorities during his first year

He aims to ensure students are both challenged and engaged within their classes and that they show up to receive their education.

Culture is equally important to him.

“I want everybody to be valued. I want everyone to feel important, and I want everybody to know that when they come talk to me, they’re as important as the next person that comes and talks to me,” he said.

Conn noted the district has already made strides in instruction, attendance and school culture, with improvements in student performance and positive feedback from the community.

Long term, Conn is determined to develop leaders within the district by offering mentoring and leadership opportunities for aspiring administrators.

He also plans to implement a “grow your own” program to cultivate and support future educators from within the community, an effort to address the teacher shortage in their rural area.

“We want to help them in their future education, so they’ll come back and, hopefully, teach at Knott County Schools,” he said.

Conn said he’s excited about the work ahead and committed to making Knott County a place “everybody wants to come here and live and go to school, and we want every kid to get a good quality education and be valued.”