After a year at Gretna High School, Trenton Steele, assistant principal, will be leaving the district at the end of the 2025-26. Fortunately, GHS wasn’t forced to worry for long about the incoming vice principal, as a familiar face of the building will be picking up that spot. In a press release by the school district, they confirmed that Mathew Curtis, the current activities director, will be promoted to a different part of administration. Curtis was first hired in 2019, and over the past several years, he has played a huge role in the success of hundreds of student athletes and has watched teens thrive throughout their high school years.
“The decision to move into a school-side administrative role really grew out of my long passion for serving students and staff on a much broader level. As activities director, I’ve had the opportunity to connect with students through athletics and activities. However, I’ve also seen how impactful strong leadership can be across the entire building,” Curtis said. “It wasn’t an easy decision, because I truly love being an AD. I’m proud of the relationships that I have with our sponsors, coaches, and students. However, I felt ready for a new challenge and a chance to grow professionally.”
Alongside the announcement of his promotion, the release also noted the arrival of the school’s newest activities director: Joshua Gibbs. Gibbs isn’t a new face at the school. Currently known as Coach Gibbs to many, he’s helped out as the assistant wrestling coach, as well as a special education teacher who will succeed Curtis in the activities director position.
“I have no doubt that the transition will be smooth, as we will work side by side to ensure that all parties feel supported,” Curtis said. “I plan to spend significant time alongside him, walking through daily responsibilities, introducing him to key stakeholders, and sharing insight into the systems and culture we have built upon.”
Curtis and Gibbs have both made an incredible contribution to the Gretna High School community, and their love for the school district will continue to be felt even more strongly as they put their best foot forward to create a warm and welcoming environment for everyone.
“I will absolutely miss being an AD. The energy of game nights, the relationships with coaches, the daily interactions with student-athletes, those things are special and have meant a great deal to me,” Curtis said. “That said, I’m incredibly excited about this next chapter. Honestly, I don’t see this as leaving something behind, but rather expanding my ability to serve our school community.”
