As students enter the heavy doors and pour into the hallways, they observe a change at Leavitt Area High School; standing in the center of the main lobby, usually accompanies by another teacher or faculty member, is a man clad in a long jacket noticeably different looking than the Vice Principal who once stood in his place.

“Where’s Mr. Haley? Is that…,” students squint to ensure they are seeing correctly, “….Mr. Shaw?” Students put two and two together to realize that their former science teacher must be the new VP, a conclusion which raises questions as to why.

When Mr. Haley retired last year, he bowed out gracefully; after serving years as an assistant principal at Leavitt, he felt it was his time to participate in recreational events in which he loved so dearly. For him, that meant helping Mr Hathaway coach football.

Leaving a huge gap in the administrative department at Leavitt, Eban Shaw knew he had some big shoes to fill. Having recently completed his course work for his degree in the area of administration, he said, “I didn’t want to look back on the opportunity, and wonder what could’ve happened” and boldly stepped up to take Haley’s place.

Shaw is undoubtedly one of the only VP’s in the state to refer to the subject of science with the words “amazingly cool.” This is why most students feel comfortable about Shaw’s transition from science teacher to vice principal, they feel he possesses both the qualities of an excellent teacher and the humor of a friend. “He’s a good teacher, and I think it was a really good move,” said senior Joe Coady. The new VP agrees, “I think that the transition has gone well.”

But what is his favorite thing about being an assistant principal? “Wearing the radio,” he assures. He pauses slightly then adds, “Actually, one of the best/most interesting parts is all the ‘behind the scenes’ work that needs to be done for things to at least seem like they are running smoothly.”

The only slight problem Shaw faces with the transition regards one of his new responsibilities, “I don’t really feel weird other than trying to keep my desk reasonably clean.”

Mr. Shaw makes mention of the new challenges associated with his new position. “The learning curve was pretty steep, and I continue to learn new things every day.”

His efforts are great and students and teachers agree. “I think he’s such a benefit to this school” said Lori Marschall, computer technician. We couldn’t agree more!!