Dr. Michael Newman will be Manual’s new principal starting February 22nd, according to a letter sent out to Manual families this morning. This decision follows the SBDM recommendation during a Special-Called Meeting on January 29. 

Dr. Newman will follow Mr. Tom Wortham, Manual’s interim principal after Mr. Darryl Farmer’s retirement at the end of 2020. Dr. Newman served as principal of Early College Western High School from August 2013 to February 2020 when he became the Commissioner of Professional Licensing for the Kentucky Public Protection Cabinet. This will be his 21st year in education.

He earned a bachelor’s degree in Science and Secondary Education and Teaching from The University of Tennessee at Chattanooga in 1999 before earning a master’s degree in Science and Educational Leadership and Administration, General. He also received his doctorate in Urban Education and Leadership from The University of Louisville and is currently in coursework to improve education for all students. 

“I am personally excited to have Dr. Michael Newman as our next principal,” SBDM member Kim Ryan, parent of Trey Ryan (11, HSU) and Patrick Ryan (10, HSU) said. “He presented an impressive, thorough and detailed plan to not only build on Manual’s many successes but also to grow and develop areas of potential growth.