Name: Josh Groves
Graduation Year: 2003
Major: Math Education
Current Position: 2017-18 Principal of Pleasant View K-8 School, 2018-19 Principal of Glendale High School, both Springfield Public Schools
City and State: Springfield, MO
Tell us about your career and what you do now.
I have spent the entirety of my educational career in Springfield Public Schools in Springfield Missouri. I began my career as math teacher and coach at Hillcrest High School where I spent seven years teaching and coaching baseball (7 years), football (3 years), and basketball (1 year). I then served as the middle school assistant principal at Cherokee Middle School for 2 years, the assistant principal at Pershing K-8 School for three years, and have been the principal at Pleasant View K-8 School for the past three years. Next year, I will serve the Glendale High School community as the principal.
What is your favorite memory from Evangel?
I was blessed to be able to play baseball at Evangel, and although I love the sport, and enjoyed playing the game, it was the friendships that I developed with roommates and teammates that I cherish the most.
How did Evangel help you identify/develop your calling?
Evangel is a unique place where there is a constant underlying focus on the development of your faith as a Christian. Everything that is done there is done through that lens, and with that purpose. There is something very powerful about being surrounded by so many diverse individuals with unique backgrounds and perspectives, but all there with one purpose, to seek and serve Christ through their learning and life preparation.
How did your experience at Evangel prepare you for life after graduation?
I had the opportunity to develop and grow in my faith. I received an excellent, well-rounded education taught with an emphasis on how to be a disciple for Christ. I developed a passion to serve, and that has been a foundational piece in the way that I lead in my current positions. Being an educator is a hard job, emotionally draining, and faith challenging. At Evangel I was able to have experiences that rooted me in my beliefs and allows me to weather the challenges that come with what I believe to be the most important profession.
What advice would you give a current student preparing for the workforce?
Enjoy the process. I went to Evangel with the belief that I wanted to work in one profession, and left with a different purpose. Along the way, I had great experiences, met amazing men and women who profoundly impacted my life, and created memories that I will never forget. Allow God to guide and direct you, and enjoy the time that you have as a student.
What would you look for if you were in a position to hire new graduates from Evangel?
When hiring new staff I look for someone who has a passion for kids, who has a heart to teach the whole student. I look for someone who believes that ALL students are capable of learning, being socially and academically successful, and wants to serve the community as a whole. It is important to have a strong foundation in content, but I believe it is much more vital to love students.