JOE PHILLIPS

JOE PHILLIPS

Education

  • Northeastern State University, Masters of Education, School Administration (2010)

  • Northeastern State University, Bachelors of Arts in Education (2000)

  • Eastern Oklahoma State College, Associate in Arts (1998)

  • Talihina High School (1996)

Experience

Muldrow Elementary School Principal: 2021-present

  • Classroom Teacher, Muldrow Public Schools: 14 years

  • Baseball and Fast-Pitch Softball Coach: 5 years

  • 2011-2012 Muldrow Public Schools District Teacher of the Year

  • Assistant Principal, Muldrow Elementary School: 6 years

  • Muldrow Elementary School Summer and Morning P.A.W.S Director: 5 years

  • Director of Transportation, Muldrow Public Schools: 5 years

  • Full-time Bus Route Driver: 12 years

  • Summer Drivers Education Instructor: 8 years

  • High School Principal: 3 years

  • Athletic Director:  2 years

Educational Philosophy

What is teaching? According to Webster's Dictionary, teaching is “to cause to know something, to guide the studies of, or to impart knowledge.” I wanted to become a teacher so that I could be part of the process of imparting knowledge. I believe teachers directly mold the youth of today and assist in creating future leaders.  An ancient Chinese proverb once said, “Give a man a fish and you feed him for a day. Teach a man to fish and you feed him for a lifetime.” For 13 years I made it my goal not to just give students the answers to problems but teach them how to find the answers on their own. As a principal, I will continue to strive to ensure that learning for children will be an exciting journey. I am devoted to becoming the best principal I can be for our youth. Galileo once said, “We cannot teach people anything; we can only help them discover it within themselves.” The road to discovery begins by starting each day with a smile. It is imperative to show the people around you that you care about them. Students must be motivated to discover their full potential and I believe this starts with maintaining a positive attitude in any situation. I once read a quote from an unknown author that said, “Life is not measured by the number of breaths we take, but by the memories that take our breath away.” I want those kinds of memories to relate to my educational career.

Family:
Married to Kendra and has two children; Kristen and Alexandria Phillips

Hobbies:
Enjoys fishing and hunting on weekends