Josh Trosper

Approaching his ninth year as assistant principal of Panther Nation, Josh Trosper brings experience from different grade levels. Prior to KCHS, Mr. Trosper served as principal at Page School Center and Yellow Creek School Center in Bell County. His teaching history includes K-5 math, reading, and science.

It is those different positions that have accumulated many different memories.

"I have been a principal at different levels- elementary, middle and high school. In each setting I have found the most memorable moments have been when I have watched students overcome obstacles and achieve a level of success they didn’t think was possible. "

Setting goals and working to achieve them is important to Mr. Trosper. What is he working on now? "My goal is to improve communication with all stakeholders and build relationships with community partners. Building relationships is the key to any successful school and for me I always set a goal to be better than I was the previous year. "

The theme of relationships, students reaching personal achievements, and growth are all parts of being an assistant principal for Mr. Trosper.

"One of the most enjoyable parts of my job is helping students on a daily basis. The students in our community are amazing and each day I am blessed to get to know them and be a part of their lives. To be at the high school level and see a student who struggled walk across the stage at graduation is always a cherished moment for me. I always reflect on the work of the teachers and the administration to get that student to be successful and it is the most rewarding experience."

From classroom teacher to principal, Mr. Trosper has words of wisdom to share with colleagues who are looking to advance in the field of education. "Take the leap. Apply and interview when you can. Don’t get dismayed if you have to go through several interviews. Attend conferences and seek out mentors. If your goal is to be an administrator, volunteer to take on leadership roles in your school and district. This is the best way to gain experience."

He encourages students at KCHS to consider a major in the education field. When asked what he would tell students about teaching, Mr. Trosper responded:

"We need young adults in the teaching profession now more than ever. In the COVID era, we need technologically savvy professionals.

Teaching is the most stressful and rewarding career you can choose. Making the difference and being a positive influence on our future is the most important job to have.

Don't be afraid to go outside of your comfort area. There may not be jobs available in your hometown. Branch out and get experience."

Mr. Trosper himself had a teacher that opened his eyes to pursuing a career in education. For him, it was Mrs. Sandra Wilson.

"Mrs. Wilson was my Spanish Teacher at Middlesboro High School. She was energetic and positive. She encouraged all of us to push harder and to enjoy the learning process even when we stumbled. In addition to Spanish, she made school fun. We often created projects, presentations, and other hands on learning activities. One of our projects in Spanish 4 was to plan a lesson and teach basic Spanish to elementary students. Whether she realized it or not, that one lesson inspired me to think about a career in education. It ignited in me a passion for teaching and for opening a world for students through education. That was nearly 25 years ago and I still remember that lesson."

While students and colleagues may think that they know a lot about Mr. Trosper, here is something that they may not know and may relate to.

"I have always been a music fan, but that has expanded the past few years. I enjoy listening to all types of music. I most enjoy and currently miss going to live shows and music festivals. Recently I have been helping to organize and put on concerts in our local area and writing about my experiences for various local music journalism outlets."