New Eisenhower Principal Running Toward Goals

                  Be sure to ask Ethan Gruen, the new principal at Dwight D. Eisenhower Elementary (Grades 4-5), when he’s going to run his next half-marathon. The former Abilene High School cross country and track athlete runs to stay physically fit and to relieve stress. He brings the same passion, perseverance and commitment it takes to compete in half-marathons to his position as school administrator, where his focus is on what is best for the students as they race through life.

 “Before I make any decision, the questions I ask are: Is it going to help kids or hinder kids? Are we doing this to benefit ourselves, or will it benefit the kids? Will it help them learn more or become better citizens?,” Gruen says.

Preparing his students for the journey ahead in middle school, high school and beyond is one of his goals.

“I want the kids to start thinking about the future, what the next few years hold, and how we can help them start learning about things like leadership,” he says. “Many high school students and professionals benefit from leadership skills. I’d love to work with the students at Eisenhower to help them become young leaders that make a difference in the life of those around them.”

Gruen attended Abilene public schools and appreciates the education he received here. With 14 of his 20 years in education as an administrator, he eagerly returns to Abilene to continue his own career journey in his beloved home town.