Nate Perry

Nate Perry is a distinguished educator whose career is defined by an unwavering commitment to public education and service to others. With a career spanning more than 30 years, Nate has served as a teacher, principal, and district administrator, consistently demonstrating a student-centered approach that has left a lasting legacy on the Belleville community. Nate’s tenure in the School District of Belleville began in 2014 when he was hired as the middle school/high school principal. For six years, he led the school with a focus on high standards and accountability, eventually guiding the district to a "significantly exceeds expectations" rating on the state report card.

In 2020, he transitioned to the role of district administrator, a position he held until June 2024. During this time, Nate navigated the unprecedented challenges of the pandemic, where he made the safety and educational recovery of students his primary concern.

Nate’s impact extended far beyond the classroom. He was instrumental in creating the Wildcat Wall of Fame itself, envisioning a way to honor those who made significant contributions to the community. A dedicated community leader, he championed the opening of the Belleville splashpad and was an active member in the Village’s Economic Development Committee, the Belleville Area Chamber of Commerce, and the Belleville Area Kiwanis Club. Colleagues and community members frequently describe Nate as "110% dedicated," noting that he was often the first person to arrive at the school and the last to leave, always present at extracurricular events to support students and staff.

Beyond his professional accolades, Nate is recognized for his profound personal impact. He served as a pivotal mentor to staff, with one colleague stating, "besides my parents, there has not been a person that has impacted my life greater.” His leadership was characterized by empathy and patience, particularly as he helped the community navigate through times of grief and adversity. Nate continues to advocate for public education as the district administrator of the Evansville Community School District while completing his doctoral dissertation. A devoted husband and father of four daughters, Nate Perry embodies the Wildcat spirit, reminding us all—“It’s a great day to be a Wildcat.”