Cape Central principal soon will end 40-year career

Principal Mike Cowan is known for a warm personality and a contagious smile that lights up the hallways of Cape Girardeau Central High School.

But that smile faded into tears for a moment Tuesday as Cowan described what he'll miss most after his retirement this year: the students.

"Look around," he said, motioning toward photographs of students and other memorabilia that decorate his office walls.

"That's what's going to be the difficult part," he said. "If, indeed, you really enjoy school and enjoy working with kids, that becomes your priority very quickly."

Cowan has been principal for 14 years -- making him the longest-serving principal in the school's history. He recently announced his retirement, with his last day set for June 30.

He has seen many changes during his time with the district and has hired more than 80 percent of the school's faculty and staff.

"I've had the opportunity to be here when so many people have started their careers," he said. "Or, if they've moved here and gotten settled. And that's been such an honor to be a part of that process. Those are life-defining moments for people."

It was Cowan's second year as principal when the school moved into its new building on Silver Springs Road.

He was there when the football team held its first game in Tiger Stadium in 2011. He was there in 2012 when the school celebrated its 100th commencement ceremony and when Kinder Performance Hall held its grand opening in 2013.

And he was there about 10 years ago when a student who was jumping rope in the hallway accidentally ripped an emergency sprinkler from the ceiling.

"He came running all the way down here to tell me," Cowan recalled. "And, of course, the sprinklers all went off, and we had to clear the building."

The accident also triggered the fire alarm, prompting the fire department -- and news reporters -- to come investigate what was happening.

Cowan laughed as he shared the memory -- just one of countless others he's experienced at the school over the years.

He considers his time at Cape Central as the capstone of a 40-year career in the state's public school system.

"If I could control the hands of the master clock of the universe, I'd do another 40 years in a heartbeat," he said. "I really believe this has been a calling from God for me."

Cowan said he first mentioned retirement about two weeks ago during breakfast with his family.

"It's an odd sensation not knowing what you're going to be doing July 1," he said. "I've always said the first time I retire, I'm going to do the fall foliage tour in Vermont. And I've been most places I want to go, but I've never done the Holy Land tour."

He also hopes to visit New York City and get involved with theater again.

Superintendent Jim Welker said filling Cowan's position at the high school -- the largest building in the district in terms of staff and students -- is going to be a difficult task.

"He's done a wonderful job," Welker said. "He has provided great leadership for that building and is great to work with."

Welker also noted Cowan's work in 2010 when a bond issue was passed and renovations began at the school. Cowan helped with planning for the improvements.

"He does a lot of things really well," Welker said, adding Cowan is almost always in a good mood. "And he will be missed, I'm sure."

Welker said he hopes there will be opportunities in the coming months to recognize Cowan for his contributions not only to the high school, but to the district in general.

"We really appreciate him and all he's done," Welker said. "And we certainly wish him well in his retirement."

klamb@semissourian.com

388-3639