It is with great enthusiasm that we share an exciting announcement — the appointment of Mr. Derrick “DJ” Shaw as the next Principal of Keystone High School. Mr. Shaw was approved at this evening’s Special Board of Education meeting.
Mr. Shaw is proud to return home to Keystone, where his educational journey began. A proud alumni of the school, Mr. Shaw went on to attend Ashland University, earning his degree in education with a focus on mathematics, while competing on the football field for the Eagles. His passion for education and leadership was evident early on, leading him to begin his career as a math teacher and football coach at Midview High School. There, he built lasting relationships with students and staff, fostering a culture of teamwork, discipline, and academic excellence both in the classroom and on the field.
Following his time in the classroom and coaching on the sidelines, Mr. Shaw transitioned into school administration, serving as an Assistant Principal at Midview High School before joining Westlake City Schools. At Westlake, he continued to grow as a leader, first as an Assistant Principal at Westlake High School and later as the Principal of Westlake’s Lee Burneson Middle School, where he has spent the last two years. His educational values include a student-centered approach, commitment to community, and dedication to fostering a positive and inclusive school culture. He is excited to bring his experience, enthusiasm, and hometown pride back to Keystone, where he looks forward to working with students, staff, and families to build on the school’s proud traditions and inspire future Wildcats to come.
We are thrilled to welcome Mr. Shaw back to Keystone and are confident that his leadership will build on our strong foundation while continuing to move our high school forward. His return to his alma mater is more than just a homecoming — it’s the beginning of a new chapter filled with promise, opportunity, and Keystone pride.