By Andy Klotz—
MUNCIE, IN—Humbled and excited. That’s how Jeremiah “JD” Craft describes his reaction to being named the new principal at Southside Middle School.
The longtime Muncie Community Schools (MCS) employee has been an assistant principal at Southside since 2021, and now takes the principal reins from Mike Raters who retired at the end of the school year. Craft is eager to help students realize their full potential.
“Our folks are tough,” he said. “I think tough people can do anything they put their mind to, so getting our kids to take that toughness and translate it into a drive is my main focus.”
Craft knows a thing or two about drive and toughness. The former Muncie Central champion wrestler competed successfully as a mixed martial arts fighter for several years before focusing on his career as an educator. That experience will serve him well as he helps students understand how to overcome adversity in order to achieve their dreams.
“I’m going to compete for these kids and these families,” he said. “Our goal is to get these kids in a place where success is nothing new to them. I’m super excited to get to work!”
Craft previously served as a teacher at Southside and was named the school’s Teacher of the Year in 2016. He left Southside for a two-year stint as Dean at the Muncie Area Career Center before returning as assistant principal. He has also held several coaching positions within MCS, including a year as the head wrestling coach at Muncie Central.
“J.D. is a guy who takes on all challenges and gets things done,” MCS Director of Public Education and CEO Dr. Chuck Reynolds said. “He’s built tremendous camaraderie with the entire staff at Southside, and he’ll have a huge impact on the culture of that school. We’re fortunate to have his experience and passion leading the Panther community.”
Craft has a bachelor’s degree and a master’s degree from Ashford University. He is also a member of the Delaware County Athletic Hall of Fame. His message to Southside families is straight-forward and to the point:
“Get ready to win,” he said. “We’re going to get better – academically, athletically – and we’re going to represent this school in a positive way, and champion the south side of town.”
About Muncie Community Schools
Serving the local community since 1855, Muncie Community Schools (MCS) educates more than 5,000 students at six elementary schools, two middle schools and one high school while also managing several other educational facilities. Through its unique partnership with Ball State University, MCS strives to maximize each student’s potential so he or she can be a positive, productive member of society.
