Donahoo Welcome Letter
Launch the media gallery 1 playerHello Cyclones!
My name is Anthony Donahoo, and I am the new Assistant Principal and Activities Director for the high school. My family has finally moved into our new home and have enjoyed the amazingly warm welcome the community has given us. I wanted to take a second and tell you about myself, my family, and the vision I have for the school and activities department going forward.
My wife and I are originally from Corning, Iowa. We met and started dating in high school, both attended Northwest Missouri State University majoring in education, and both have a love of teaching that drives us personally and professionally. Amanda will be a 4th grade teacher at Harlan Elementary, where she is beyond excited to continue that love of teaching.
Beyond that, we have been happily married for 15 years and have two amazing children. Our daughter, Kinsey, is going to be in 5th grade. She enjoys being outside, animals, and has wanted to be a veterinarian since she started talking. Our son, Karsen, is going to be in 3rd grade. He enjoys being outside, fishing, and loves every sport you can imagine. They are enjoying our new neighborhood, meeting the kids, and are looking forward to school and the outstanding opportunities that the Harlan community has to offer.
I believe that every opportunity in life has made me ready for the next chapter. I started out in education at a tiny school district in Northwest Missouri (West Nodaway) where I student taught. The small school district taught me the value of family and how it takes a village to work together to get things done. After this, I began teaching at Creston, where I taught Project Based Learning and coached every sport under the sun for 4 years. Creston got me my first taste of the Hawkeye 10 and the fantastic competition between each school. Lastly, I was at Southwest Valley in Corning for the past 7 years, where I taught PE for 3 years, was the High School Principal for 4 years, and the Head Football Coach for the entirety. During my time there, I learned education and athletic leadership. Over the last 4 years, SWV increased state test scores each year, decreased student behaviors, and fostered a school culture that cared about emotional well-being. I’m proud of my family’s journey to this point in our lives.
I have already started my duties but look forward to the 2023-2024 school year at HCHS. I’ve stated numerous times, Harlan has a rich history that is well known across the state. My job is to continue that goal of excellence, both inside the classroom and in all activities. I will help Casey Ring to push high academic standards inside the high school. In all activities, I will make sure to continue the Harlan tradition of surrounding students with high achieving coaches and sponsors that truly care.
I cannot express my gratitude to the Harlan community for the outpouring of support and well-wishing. I am looking forward to raising my kids in this community and creating wonderful memories.