Principal’s Message

Hello Harmon Elementary, 

I hope everyone is enjoying summer break with family, friends, and new experiences! I wanted to take a quick second to introduce myself to everyone. 

I grew up in Miamisburg, Ohio and went to Spring Valley Academy where I was inspired by a number of teachers, including my High School History teacher Mr. Thomas Dunham to be apart of inspiring students to reach their highest potential.  I enrolled at Miami University, Oxford, Ohio and graduated with a Bachelors Degree and received a 7-12 Integrated Social Studies teaching license.  I then moved to Columbus, Ohio with my wife Amanda and became a History teacher for Highland Community Learning Center.  After a couple of years, my director, Dr. William McKinney encouraged me to not only lead students but also staff so that I could make a bigger impact in the school.  I attended the University of Cincinnati virtually and graduated with my Masters Degree and received a Principal license.  I was the Principal of Highlands for 6 years where our school contracted with a number of public schools in the area, including Southwestern.  I then decided to seek out a new challenge and was hired as the elementary Principal at Lagonda Elementary in Springfield, Ohio (I did not have any experience in Marion, contrary to the district FB post).  I had been in that position for 5 years and have been very proud of the progress our school has made despite the difficulties COVID presented our school. However, I felt it was time to find a position closer to home and my family, and finally grow permanent roots.  

On the personal side, as mentioned, I am married to my high school sweetheart, and have two amazing kids, Lucas and Kate. But if you want to get me talking about something besides my family, I am a huge movie buff, especially the 80s-2010s. An Ohio State Buckeye and Green Bay Packer Backer. My wife and I enjoy taking trips to new and exciting places and love hearing where people have gone that were amazing and avoid the areas that aren’t so great.

I am very excited to work in the Southwestern City School system and have heard amazing things about Harmon since I joined the team. Also I have felt very welcomed so far so I thank everyone that I have met and communicated with so far.  But it is not surprising after having such a great experience with the staff, students, and community in my past position at Highlands. 

-Mr. Joshua Harning

Harmon Elementary Principal