News Release June 11, 2026

Emporia Public Schools Announces New Emporia Middle School Assistant Principal for 2026–2027 School Year

Emporia, KS – Emporia Public Schools is pleased to announce the hiring of Trevor Mathews as the new Assistant Principal at Emporia Middle School.

Mathews brings nearly two decades of experience in education, leadership, student support, and school safety. Most recently, he has served as Health & Safety Manager at Michelin in Emporia, where he led safety initiatives, trained employees on workplace expectations, analyzed safety data, and worked collaboratively with staff and stakeholders to promote a culture of responsibility and continuous improvement.

Before his time at Michelin, Mathews spent nine years as Assistant Principal and Activities Director at Emporia High School. In that role, he supported students with behavioral and mental health needs, supervised special education programs, conducted teacher evaluations, managed building safety and security procedures, and coordinated student activities designed to enhance engagement and school culture. Earlier in his career, Mathews taught at Walnut Elementary School, Emporia Middle School, and Lowther North Intermediate School, serving students across multiple grade levels and subject areas.

"I'm excited to return to the district and join EMS as an assistant principal," said Mathews. "I look forward to getting to know the students, staff and families while working to create a positive school experience for everyone.

"Building relationships, supporting student growth, and working alongside the dedicated educators and families who make EMS a great place for students to learn are among the things I am most excited about. I am grateful for the opportunity to return to the district and look forward to getting started at EMS."

Emporia Middle School Principal Brent Burns said he is excited to welcome Mathews back to USD 253.

"Emporia Middle School is excited to welcome our new Assistant Principal, Trevor Mathews, to the EMS leadership team," Burns said. "Trevor brings a wealth of educational experience and a strong commitment to supporting students, staff, and families. Throughout his career at both EHS and EMS, Mr. Mathews has demonstrated a passion for student success, building positive school cultures, and fostering meaningful relationships within the school community.

"What makes this addition especially exciting is Trevor's familiarity with Emporia and the values that make our community unique. Having connections to the area and an understanding of our district's commitment to excellence, Mr. Mathews is well-positioned to help continue the great work happening at EMS. We are confident that his experience, leadership, and dedication to students will make a positive impact on our school and community for years to come."

Mathews earned his Bachelor of Science in Education with concentrations in Elementary Education and Middle School Science from Emporia State University. He also completed his Educational Administration Licensure through Emporia State University and holds an English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) 6-12 certification from Kansas State University.

Outside of work, Mathews and his wife enjoy staying active with their two sons. As a family, they enjoy spending time outdoors, attending sporting events, and traveling together.

Mathews will begin his role as assistant principal at Emporia Middle School on July 1. He succeeds Ally Waddle, who recently accepted a leadership position in another school district.