Valley's Backus returns to the classroom

Scott Backus, former principal of Tippecanoe Valley Middle School, has transitioned to a teaching role at Tippecanoe Valley High School. This move comes as Backus fulfills a long-held desire to return to the classroom, specifically teaching US History and Psychology.

"I have always had a desire to return to teaching and potentially return to some athletic coaching duties," Backus said. "I never stepped into this role with the intent to be a principal for the rest of my career. June Yazel's retirement allows me to return to teaching US History and Psychology, my primary areas. There is no guarantee an opening in social studies at Tippecanoe Valley will be available in the future. I don't want to leave Tippecanoe Valley, so I took this opportunity."

The decision to transition comes at a significant time for Backus, as his children are reaching important milestones in their own educational journeys. 

"The responsibilities of administration are time-consuming. I understood this when I took the position. However, that time has pulled me away from Kim and the kids frequently. My kids will both be seniors next year. Hayley is at Purdue and will be a student teacher at Manchester High School in the spring, living at home. Aaron will be a senior at Valley. The timing is right to be able to have more time with them before they are off on their own."
Backus expressed deep gratitude for the support he has received during his tenure. "I appreciate the trust and support I have received from Mr. Conley and Mr. Boggs, and the school board. The administrative team is strong right now throughout TVSC. They allowed me to do what my team at TVMS felt was in the best interest of the students we serve. I leave with no contention or issue with our TVSC leadership, only a personal desire to return to teaching."

Reflecting on his time at TVMS, Backus shared, "TVMS is a great school. The staff works hard and is an excellent team. It was a difficult decision for me to leave TVMS after 26 years, 14 years teaching and 12 years in administration. It is my hope that my successor will be able to come in and keep things moving forward successfully."

He added, "The relationships with the staff, students, and the community I have made at TVMS are hard to walk away from, but I hope to continue to play a role in the success of TVSC in my new role at the high school."

Tippecanoe Valley School Corp. is profoundly thankful for Backus's 26 years of dedicated service and looks forward to his continued contributions in his new teaching role at TVHS. The search for a new principal for TVMS has already begun.

TVSC report