News Release April 25, 2025

Mr. Matt Baumwart Named New Assistant Principal and Athletic Director at Emporia Middle School for the 2025-26 school year

Emporia, KS – Emporia Public Schools is pleased to announce the selection of Mr. Matt Baumwart as the new Assistant Principal and Athletic Director at Emporia Middle School for the 2025-2026 school year. Mr. Baumwart brings a wealth of experience in both education and school leadership. He currently serves as the Assistant Principal and Athletic Director at Iola High School, a position he has held since May 2020. Before that, he served as the Assistant Principal and Athletic Director at Iola Middle School from August 2017 to June 2020.

A familiar face to many in the Emporia community, Mr. Baumwart previously taught Physical Education for 18 years at Riverside Elementary, Emporia High School, and Emporia Middle School. His strong ties to the district, combined with his leadership experience, make him a valuable addition to the Emporia Middle School team.

“It is with great excitement that I welcome Mr. Matt Baumwart as the new Assistant Principal and Athletic Director at Emporia Middle School,” said Mr. Brent Burns, who will begin serving as the EMS Principal on July 1. “With over eight years of experience in athletic leadership at both middle and high school levels, Mr. Baumwart brings a wealth of knowledge, passion, and dedication to student-athletes and school communities. We are thrilled to have someone of his caliber joining our team, and we look forward to the positive impact he will have on our students, staff, and families.”

“I am excited to be returning to Emporia Middle School as the Assistant Principal and Athletic Director,” said Baumwart, “ This district means a lot to me, and I cannot wait to work with the awesome students and staff at EMS!”

Mr. Baumwart earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Biology and Physical Education from Emporia State University (ESU) in 1996. He completed his Master’s Degree in Health, Physical Education, and Recreation from ESU in 1999 and earned his building-level licensure in Educational Administration from ESU in 2009. Matt also holds an endorsement in English for Speakers of Other Languages.

“My wife Deidra and I are looking forward to reuniting with friends, family, and the Emporia community,” shared Mr. Baumwart. His sons, Bryce (EHS Class of 2015) and Hayden (EHS Class of 2019), had this to say, “We are excited for Dad and for EMS in his new role! Growing up in Emporia, his former students constantly told us how much they loved him as a teacher, and we can't wait to see what he does at EMS!” 

Mr. Baumwart will officially assume his duties on July 1, 2025, following the resignation of Mr. Adrian Trujillo.