Maize graduate Heath Elliott, is coming home to Maize this year as a new Maize High assistant principal.

Alongside graduating from Maize, Elliott’s parents were highly involved in USD 266. Elliot’s father was superintendent for Maize as well as his mother being the founder of Complete High School.

Elliott lived in Clearwater, Kansas before making the switch with his wife, Shelli, and daughter, Alexis, who is a junior this year.

Before becoming a Maize High assistant principal, Elliott was the assistant principal and athletic director at Clearwater High School and worked in the education field for 22 years. 

“I am excited to be back home,” Elliott said. “Maize has always held a special place in my heart. I have always felt Maize is an elite district and I am excited to be back to help continue the excellence of creating the love of learning.”

While attending Maize, Elliott met the teacher who would inspire him to work in education, Mark Diskin.

“The connections he made and the way he presented material made him stand out,” Elliott said. “I became a teacher because of Mr. Diskin.”

Head principal Chris Botts believes that Elliott fits the administration team’s chemistry.

“We hold the same values and he is very kid-centric,” Botts said. “He has a wealth of knowledge and experience which makes us all better. He has a great sense of humor and will do anything to support our school, our staff, and our kids.”
Elliott said his favorite part of being in education is working with young people and making connections.

“I’ve always wanted to come back home and positively impact the lives of students and staff,” Elliott said.

Out of those who applied, Elliott was set apart by his love for Maize, says Botts.

“One of the first things that separates Mr. Elliott is his love and passion for Maize High School,” Botts said. “He is an alumnus of MHS and his Eagle Pride really stood out in the interview.  Mr. Elliott comes from a family of educators which makes leadership, teaching, and learning part of his DNA.”

With a new school year comes new goals for the administration; Elliott is hoping to bring the experience Mr. Diskin gave him while he was a student to his new position

“My goal this year is to build relationships and make connections with all students and staff,” Elliott said.