Corey Semler

Executive Director at Yuma Union High School District

Yuma, Arizona, United States

About

As a devoted leader, I've been lucky enough to work with many exceptional people over the last decade in education and athletics. I'm a product of great parents, coaches, and mentors that instilled in me the values of respect and hard work. After recognizing the transformative power of education beyond the classroom, I expanded my role to include coaching in various sports, implementing a holistic approach to personal development. I possess a deep commitment to developing connections and relationships. I believe that understanding and connecting with each individual is the key to unlocking their full potential. As a leader, I go beyond the traditional dynamic, striving to be a mentor and guide. In the realm of leadership, I don't just coach the situation or "game"; I invest in the personal growth and well-being of each individual. My leadership style is characterized by empathy, trust, and a genuine commitment to seeing others succeed. I aim to create an environment where people feel seen, heard, and valued. This approach has resulted in not only organizational, academic, and athletic success but also in the development of confident, well-rounded individuals.

Experience

  • Yuma Union High School District (11 yrs 1 mo)
    • Executive Director of Teaching and Learning
      Jun 2024 - Present · 2 yrs 2 mos

    • Principal
      Jun 2023 - Jun 2024 · 1 yr 1 mo

    • Assistant Principal
      Nov 2018 - May 2023 · 4 yrs 7 mos

  • Gila Ridge High School ()
    • Head Football Coach
      Jun 2017 - Jun 2019 · 2 yrs 1 mo

    • Head Soccer Coach
      Aug 2015 - May 2018 · 2 yrs 10 mos

      Since taking over the program in 2015, I’ve had the opportunity to be part of something truly special. Prior to my arrival, the team had not experienced a season with more than eight wins or competed for a section title. Through the dedication of our players, coaches, and community, we’ve been fortunate to make significant progress. Over the course of three seasons, we’ve earned three consecutive section championships and made playoff appearances each year — milestones that were firsts for the program. Equally important, our team GPA rose from 2.2 to 3.3, reflecting the emphasis we’ve placed on academics and personal growth. I was honored to be named Yuma County Coach of the Year in 2015–2016 following our first season together, and later, AIA State Coach of the Year after our team captured its first State Championship in 2017–2018. These achievements reflect the collective effort of a group that believed in building something bigger than themselves — and I’m grateful to have been a part of that journey. Career Record (46-9-4)