Kathy Branson, a longtime math teacher at West Middle School, has been named the school’s next assistant principal.

Branson has taught at the school for 19 years. She replaces Jeff Harkin, who is leaving to become principal at Liberty Memorial Central Midd le School.

She earned a bachelor’s degree at Kansas University and a teaching certification at Washburn University.

The move still must be approved by the school board and becomes effective with the start of the 2012-13 school year.