Spotlight on Mr. Keys

By: Linnea Yri Kitzman and Jessia McDonald

Who is Mr. Keys? Student? Staff member? Rule-breaker? Or trouble-maker? Mr. Keys is a new addition to the KCI community. Now, why should you care? Well, are you a student with the last name A-F? If so, he’s your vice principal! The Edge recently set out to learn more about Mr. Keys, and introduce him to the KCI community. 

The Edge: What was your first impression of KCI?

Mr. Keys: My initial impression of KCI was how warm and welcoming the staff and students were here.  I had a lot of people reaching out to me and stopping to talk with me to introduce themselves and welcome me to the school.    

The Edge: Where were you before?

Mr. Keys: Before KCI, I was working for the Avon Maitland DSB.  I taught math, science & computer science courses at a highschool in Stratford.  I was a student success teacher and a guidance counselor.  For the past three years, I worked with all of the secondary schools as the student success coordinator.

The Edge: What’s your role at KCI?

Mr. Keys: I am the vice principal primarily supporting students with last names that begin with the letters A-F.

The Edge: What do you think of the school so far?

Mr. Keys: KCI is a really great place to be.  The staff and students are really incredible.  We are able to offer such a wide range of clubs and sports that there is something for everybody.  I see all the learning opportunities that are available to our students and I think we are so lucky to have such diverse options.

The Edge: How is KCI’s spirit compared to other schools?

Mr. Keys: This is the most spirited school I have ever been at. For me, I recognized the energy and spirit our student leaders and new grade 9 students brought to Raider's camp and knew that this is a special place.   My first six months have confirmed that KCI is a great place to be.

The Edge: Do you really play the keys?

Mr. Keys: I have no music ability whatsoever.

The Edge: What’s the hardest thing about being a vice principal?

Mr. Keys: I think the hardest part of coming into the role was to learn about the staff and students quickly.  The learning curve is steep but my hope through this learning is that everyone in the oneKCI community is able to be their authentic self here.

The Edge: What's a fun fact about you?

Mr. Keys: I love being outdoors.  I grew up on a farm and go back regularly.  My kids love the tractor/combine rides with their uncles. 

The Edge: Who’s your favorite artist?

Mr. Keys: Bob Ross.

Now we know the truth about Mr. Keys. A simple, farm-raised boy, and now a KCI spirit-loving man. Having vice principal Mr. Keys as a new addition to our KCI community has definitely had a positive impact on students, staff, and spirit! After hearing about his past, it’s easy to see that he is an amazing and trustworthy inclusion to the school.