The Whitehall-Coplay School Board approved the appointment of Nate Davidson as the high school principal at its July meeting.

Although the high school has been quieter in the summer, the staff has been preparing for the school year.

Davidson recently met with The Press for an interview.

“I’m still in the middle of moving in,” Davidson said, walking into the office. “It’s half Chris’ (Schiffert), half mine right now.”

Schiffert, the former high school principal, has been named assistant to the superintendent.

Davidson is coming to the high school from Southern Lehigh School District. He is contractually obligated to 60 days of employment there.

“My last day there is Sept. 16,” he said. “I’m planned to start [at Whitehall High School] on Sept. 19.”

Davidson has worked in the education field for 17 years. His mother is a retired teacher.

“I love working with kids. I played football, baseball and was interested in coaching,” he said. “My mother showed me the importance of education.”

Davidson also has worked at Carlson Long Military Institute, New Bloomfield, Pa., and at Francis D. Raub Middle School and William Allen High School, both in the Allentown School District.

He said he has an agenda to improve academic achievement coming into the district.

“The first thing is getting what’s important for the kids, faculty, district and community,” he said. “It’s about our vision, what everyone wants to do. I do have some core beliefs.

“I believe there is some room for growth. I come from a district saturated in technology; I can bring some of that. I want to continue the academic reputation that this great district and great community have created, while challenging them to take it further.”

Davidson said the most rewarding experience is the interactions he gets to witness.

“One student made a heart sign to the parents during a musical. I remember feeling, this is why we do it, working with kids that care. They’re children. We need to remember that. When you see those stripped-down interactions, those are what make me want to come to work.

“It’s so rewarding, the small things, the kids that put out their hands for a high five when walking by,” he said. “It makes you want to come to work.”