Former Lamar principal recognized by Oklahoma organization

In a blast from the past for Lamar readers, former Principal Kem Keithly, now the superintendent in Enid, Okla., has received an award from the Oklahoma Schools Public Relations Association:

“It’s nice when you get to the end of your career like I am, that people are still willing to recognize what I’ve done during my tenure,” Keithly said.

Keithly will retire June 30 after 24 years at the helm of EPS. During his time here, the district’s test scores have continued to exceed state and national averages. Among his many other contributions, he oversaw creation of the district’s pre-kindergarten and nationally recognized Lincoln Academy alternative programs and led the district successfully through multiple state-level budget crises. Under Keithly’s charge, the district has passed more than $40 million worth of bond improvements for facilities, transportation and technology.

Keithly was twice named Administrator of the Year by Oklahoma Association of School Administrators.

Keithly began his career as a teacher at Fort Osage in Independence, Mo. After just three years in the classroom, he accepted his first administrative position as a principal in Lamar, Mo. He continued in building-level administration in Sedalia, Mo., before being promoted to superintendent of the district from 1976-80. After serving four years as superintendent in Lee’s Summit, Mo., he accepted the Enid position in 1984.