A Missouri middle school principal will be the next principal of Kennedy School.

Felton Avery is a former physical education and health teacher and is currently principal of Grandview Middle School, south of Kansas City, Mo. He will replace Kennedy principal Climetine Clayburn, who will retire in May.

School board members approved Avery at their Monday night meeting.

“We’re excited to be bringing Mr. Avery,” said Supt. Randy Weseman.

Avery has worked for the Grandview district 31 years.

Avery earned bachelor’s and master’s degrees at Central Missouri State University. He is working on his doctorate at the University of Missouri-Kansas City.

“I bring some experience that I hope will help staff and students as we move forward in improving achievement at Kennedy Elementary School,” Avery said.

Avery’s salary is still being negotiated. The principals of New York and Schwegler schools, who are new to the district this year, earn $56,000 to $58,000 this year.

A team of teachers, staff, parents and a community representative chose Avery after meeting him earlier this month.

District administrators interviewed Avery earlier this month.

Weseman is expected to announce the new principal for South Junior High School in about two weeks. Russell Blackbird has been principal there since 1995.