KELLOGG — Most experts agree that middle school is one of the most challenging age groups in education. Good thing Brad Harmon isn’t afraid of a challenge. 

After more than two decades working in Kootenai County, Harmon, 47, is stepping into his new role as principal of Kellogg Middle School. 

Harmon spent nine years teaching a variety of subjects at the middle school level before moving into administration. Now entering his 16th year as an administrator, he has served at both elementary and middle schools, as well as an alternative high school. 

He will be the third principal at KMS in four years, and Kellogg School District leaders hope his arrival brings stability to the school’s quietly growing student population. 

According to Harmon, the timing couldn’t have been better. 

“I was ready for a change, and working in a smaller community with great support for education was a huge draw for me,” Harmon said. “I am so excited to work in a district that has a focus on kids. I have also been out of the middle school setting for six years, and it was time to get back to an age group that I have built my career around.” 

Harmon believes positive relationships lead to positive academic outcomes. His first goal as principal is to foster a school culture that supports those relationships — both inside the building and throughout the community. 

“I always try to make school a place that the community wants to be a part of,” Harmon said. “It is important that not only the students feel comfortable coming to the school, but I want parents to know that they can come in and have conversations with me. Conversations build further community, and the whole community is what provides for the best possible education of students.” 

His ability to build those relationships will be key to his success and to maintaining order in the school. 

“Middle school students thrive in settings that have established boundaries. As the principal, it is my goal to establish boundaries which allow for students to reach their highest potential,” he said. “This happens through holding students accountable for their actions, celebrating their successes, and working to develop an understanding of why something may not have worked.” 

While relationships and boundaries are vital, Harmon said supporting his staff is just as important in creating a healthy school climate. 

“When working with staff, a lot of people would say that I am a servant leader,” Harmon said. “It is my job to ensure that the staff has what they need to be successful, and I will do all that I can to make sure this happens.” 

Kellogg School District Superintendent Lance Pearson called Harmon’s hiring a major win for the district and community. 

“Mr. Harmon is a lifelong North Idaho resident who prefers working in the middle school setting,” Pearson said. “He brings a wealth of successful experience to Kellogg Middle School and a calming, professional demeanor. We are looking forward to seeing Mr. Harmon's imprint on the KMS community as a whole and we are excited to welcome him into Wildcat Nation.” 

When asked about his favorite part of being an educator, Harmon answered just as you might expect from someone who has devoted his career to middle schoolers. 

“I get to have fun every day,” he said. “I always try to make sure that school is a fun place. I have the opportunity to laugh at work every day, and I have an opportunity to impact over 200 people's lives in a positive way on a daily basis.”