Greenville names Urban to head up elementary school

Superintendent of Schools Michael Bennett said he was looking forward to Urban taking over the elementary school.

“Mr. Urban’s enthusiasm, passion for academic and social growth, and the work he has done in his 20-plus years in education made him standout from other candidates,” Bennett said. “He made an instant connection with the interview committees, and that made an impact long after he left the room. After his interview, it was clear he fit right in.”

Bennett introduced Urban to the community at Monday’s meeting.

“Matt (Urban) has gone through a gauntlet of a processes in which we were looking to replace someone who has been a fixture down at Ellis, (former principal) Mr. Mahan,” Bennett said at the meeting. “So, we are very excited. Matt (Urban) comes with a pretty diverse background, a passion for education, a passion for learning, not only for our youngest learners but for the adults as well.”

Former Principal Peter Mahan, who served in the district for two decades, retired Feb. 13. Mahan, but he had been on medical leave since October due to what the district described as an “unexpected health need.”

Joseph Lopez has been serving as school’s interim principal since Oct. 19 and will remain in that role until Urban takes over.

“In hiring for this position, all candidates were screened by our HR (human resources) department, and those who moved forward had two separate interviews, one with each interview committee,” Bennett said. “Those committees consisted of faculty, staff, parents, supervisors, and administrators from across the district. After thorough internal conversations and meticulous reference checks, I interviewed the final candidates that were selected. After those interviews, I made my recommendation to the Board of Education to appoint Matthew Urban to the position.”

Urban said he’s excited and the district has welcomed him.

“The professionalism, pride, kindness, and enthusiasm of those I met throughout the interview process was incredible. I immediately felt welcome.”

Urban has over 20 years of experience and a strong track record of fostering academic and social growth, according to the district.

His background includes roles as a general education teacher and special education teacher, as well as experience in both elementary and high school settings– equipping him to be a dedicated administrator at the school.

The new principal looks to continue the growth of learning in the elementary school.

He hopes for “a collaborative community of learners that encourages positive relationships, celebrates academic and social growth, and provides unforgettable experiences for students and staff.”

He said he values face-to-face communication and enjoys listening and connecting with the school community.

“I look forward to Mr. Urban joining our community because he will bring a new level of excitement to the school and he shares our vision of fostering a place where everyone can learn, teach, and belong,” Bennett added. “I’m confident that he will bring energy, perspective, and insight to our administrative team, and his continued desire to learn and grow will benefit us all.”

Urban will start officially July 8 where he will be on a probationary tenure period until July 7, 2028, Bennett said.

Urban will be the 11th principal of Scott M. Ellis Elementary School since the district’s centralization in 1932.

One of Urban’s top priorities will be to immerse himself in the district and experience the history, traditions, people and events that make it such a special place for so many people.

“I am most excited to meet as many students, staff, and families as soon as possible and learn more about what makes Greenville such a special place to learn and grow,” he said.