The Queen Creek Unified School District (QCUSD) Governing Board and Superintendent Perry Berry have announced that Jeff Markle is the new principal for Gateway Polytechnic Academy (GPA).

Markle has 22 years of experience working in education and currently is the principal at Fountain Hills Middle School. He lives in Eastmark with his wife, a teacher at Silver Valley Elementary, and two daughters who attend Eastmark High. 

"The household rivalry for best feeder school just went to a new level," Markle stated in a press release. "There has been a solid foundation laid at GPA and I see my vision and passion for education transitioning seamlessly into this school."

According to the release, Markle's priorities will be creating a safe and respectful environment, laying strong foundations for learning, educating the whole student and upholding the importance of family.

Berry said he looks forward to welcoming Markle to the district.

"Jeff Markle is not only a qualified and dedicated educator, but he's a member of this community,” Berry stated in a press release. “We look forward to him leading the GPA Aviators to new heights."

Markle will start his new position in July.