It is not every day a new member join the school administration. Recently, however, Ryan Owens became the new Administrative Assistant of Landstown High School. Although new, he already is remarkable in character and regarded well by the admin.
Mr. Owens has been a P.E. teacher for 13 years. He enjoyed the job, but he wanted to broaden his positive impact on students. This is what led him to pursue becoming the Administrative Assistant and ultimately join the Eagles.
Dr. Paula Johnson, the principal of Landstown High School, stated how Mr. Owens “would be a benefit to Landstown” in an interview she had with him.
“He would thrive here,” she added. “He has a health and PE background and is very involved with student activities and leadership roles. He would step up for his school and do different things at his school, so that’s what we need here.”
Although Owens just recently came in Landstown, his workplace environs has already given him a good first impression.
“I love it. I truly feel like I work with the best admin team in the city. I know the students don’t always see all the work that they do, but they are beyond impressive,” said Owens.
Mr. Owens also has a courteous disposition underscored by his adaptability and inquisitive nature.
“He doesn’t pretend like he always knows what to do,” said Mrs. Beck, one of the assistant principles, “and that is expected of a new member; however, he doesn’t conceal that ignorance like most people would do: he loves asking questions and being open about needing help.”
She continues on describing a unique quality embodied by Mr. Owens.
“He’s not afraid to stay after and then ask the questions. A lot of times new administrators don’t want to look stupid, so they’d rather just not ask the question and then maybe do it wrong or just not do it at all, but he’s not like that.”
Additionally, Owens explains the model he’s going to use during his role as an administrator, following that of Dr. Johnson.
“I’m going to use Dr. Johnson’s vision that she’s created: being respectful, responsible, and present,” said Mr. Owens, “[I’ll] use that motto and hopefully apply the skills that she’s already applying and just help her and help guide our team to make the student situation safe, make it fun, make it educational and then hopefully see everybody grow and graduate and see what they do after school.”
Dr. Johnson also notes Mr. Owens’ relaxed and cheerful demeanor when it comes to his role.
“He’s willing to be funny and joining with the group,” she said, “So [he’s] very flexible but eager to learn and coachable.”
She also stated how “he does a good job of working with staff and students.”
With his educational background and priority to help all students, Mr. Owens will provide a welcoming environment for all Eagles at Landstown. Not only will he be crucial in the administration, he will also be a friendly member of the community, one who isn’t solely concerned for his job position.
