When classes resume this fall, Wellington High School will open under the leadership of a new principal: Bob Brungardt.

Brungardt most recently served as the assistant principal and activities director for USD 431 Hoisington in Barton County, a community about 10 miles north of Great Bend. Prior to that, he was the middle school principal in the district and also held the role of athletic director at the high school level.

“This will be my first gig as a high school principal,” Brungardt said. “I joke around that I’m about six minutes more mature than the kids, so we fit well together.”

In addition to the professional opportunity, family ties played a significant role in Brungardt’s decision to apply for the position. His brother and sister-in-law live in Wellington, and their children—his nephew and niece—attend WHS.

“My wife and I were fortunate to be a part of our two daughters’ education, and now we’ll have a chance to be part of theirs,” he said.

The Brungardts’ youngest daughter graduated from high school this spring and will be attending Wichita State University in the fall. His wife, Christie Brungardt, will also be joining the WHS staff as the new art teacher.

A gifted painter, Christie is known for creating hand-painted memorabilia for students and has painted several large-scale murals—something that could offer additional creative connections to the community.

“We’ve been in town a couple of times looking for a house,” Brungardt said. “We’re excited to be part of the community and just looking forward to getting settled.”

Much of his free time in recent years has been spent attending his daughters’ sporting events, but with that chapter coming to a close, Brungardt said he’s hoping to dust off his golf clubs.

“I try to play golf as much as I can, and I bowl a little bit,” he said. “But I have a sense most of my nights will be spent at high school sporting events.”

Brungardt’s background in athletics, education, and community involvement seems to be a natural fit for Wellington. He’s also been a strong supporter of programs like Realty U, the financial literacy experience that has been hosted at WHS for several years.

District leaders are optimistic about the future under his leadership.

“We’re excited to welcome Bob Brungardt to the district,” said USD 353 School Superintendent Adam Hatfield. “His ability to build relationships and his leadership ideas make him a great fit for Wellington High School.”

Brungardt shares that sense of optimism.

“Hopefully we can all learn and grow from each other and make Wellington High School the best it can possibly be,” he said.