Ben Smith

Principal

Field Kindley High School

Named after the World War I flying ace, Field Kindley High School is located in Coffeyville, Kansas. More information about Captain Kindley can be found at the following website: http://www.arkairmuseum.org/exhibits/exhibit-fieldkindley.php Student enrollment in grades 9-12 is approximately 560 (which includes about 30 students who are enrolled at NADO, an off campus 9-12 alternative attendance center). Field Kindley High School has a rich tradition in academics and extra-curricular activities. Many former students have enrolled in and completed degrees in some of the most prestigious colleges and universities in the United States. Both individual students and teams representing Field Kindley High School have either placed or won championships in either state or national competitions. Our focus ay FKHS is to promote individual growth and responsibility while delivering the best educational product possible. We believe that education is a team effort requiring commitment from educators, students, parents, and the community.

About Me

My family and I have been in Coffeyville for four years now, arriving in June of 2006. I am honored to have been selected as principal of Field Kindley High School. Previous to my position here, I spent three years as an assistant principal at Arkansas City High School, and six years as a high school social science teacher in Buhler, Kansas. The amazing things that I have learned and the terrific people I have been associated with have prepared me well to do the best job I can possibly do for the students and families in Coffeyville. I grew up in the Denver, Colorado area, and earned a Bachelor’s degree in History Education from the University of Northern Colorado, located in Greeley. In 2003, I received a Master’s degree in Educational Administration and Supervision from Wichita State University. I have always enjoyed school, and there is no profession more personally rewarding than education. I take it very seriously, and will work hard to promote high quality learning for all students.

My wife Kimberly and I have been married for 13 years, and we have two sons, ages 10 and 7. We are all incredibly excited to be a part of this community, and are humbled by the warmth and care we have received since we arrived.

I want to encourage all parents to be as involved as possible with the education of their students. This can range from helping to make sure they eat nutritiously before they come to school and reinforcing positive study habits at home. Of course, we should all have the expectation of each other that everything we do in school is for the direct purpose of educating kids and promoting achievement. This is supported by promoting positive home, classroom, and school discipline that supports learning and utilizes continual reflection. Simply stated, we all need to have high expectations for student learning and behavior, and work hard to follow through on those expectations.

Communication is an important of school success. If you wish to speak with me, please call the high school, or send an email. I will answer all calls and mail as soon as I possibly can. I look forward to the continued partnership with the members of this community, and hold high hopes for our future. The potential of Coffeyville is immense. Working together, there is no reason why we cannot be the greatest school district in Kansas.