The Kentucky Community Superintendent for the Department of Defense Education Activity (DoDEA) Americas Region, has named Lonnie Gilmore Jr. as the principal of Fort Knox High School at Fort Knox, Kentucky starting in mid-December.

"Mr. Gilmore brings a wealth of experience as an educational leader to the Fort Knox community," said Dr. Youlanda Washington. "His experience as a leader in education and the military makes him a perfect selection."

Gilmore began his career as a middle and high school teacher in 2006. He honed his skills as a social studies teacher. He has been a teacher mentor, a department chair, a test coordinator, and named Teacher of the Year.

Additionally, Gilmore has served on various school improvement teams. He initiated programs, such as an after-school tutoring program, Helping Hands Mentor program for African American males, and founded the Summer Bridge Academy, a program that helps rising freshmen adjust to the rigors of high school.

He has worked in the Halifax County school district in North Carolina, where he and a team of educators assisted in the state's effort to turn around the school district in 2010, which was identified as a priority school. In 2012, he became an assistant principal at the secondary level. He worked at the following schools: Cape Fear High School, Southeast Raleigh Magnet High School, and North Garner Middle School in North Carolina.

"The Fort Knox community will see high expectations, visibility, positive communication and active involvement from Mr. Gilmore," said Dr. Christy Huddleston, the DoDEA Americas Southeast District Superintendent. "He is a dedicated educator who encourages, motivates and supports others. His passion to make a difference in the lives of his students and staff is a top priority."

Gilmore was born and raised in Fayetteville, North Carolina, and said he understands the challenges faced by military families. He served in the U.S. Marine Corps at various installations, like Camp Lejeune, North Carolina; Naval Air Station Meridian, Mississippi; and Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort, South Carolina. He continues to embrace the Marine Corps motto: "Semper Fidelis," which means "always faithful."

Accompanying him from North Carolina will be his family; wife of 15 years, their three daughters, and a Shitzu-Pekingese mix named "Meatball."

Gilmore said he is excited about the opportunity to lead Fort Knox High School and to build upon its traditions and successes.

Luis Dominguez, who has worked as the interim Fort Knox High School principal, will become the assistant principal.