David Couch Mr. David W. Couch, Superintendent of Schools, has worked in Unified School District #407 since 1978. The 2006-07 school year is his fourth year as superintendent. Mr. Couch began his career with the Russell school district in 1978, when he became a social studies teacher at Ruppenthal Middle School. In addition to his teaching duties, Mr. Couch also coached football, wrestling, and basketball. During his years at Ruppenthal Middle School, David was also the Recreation Director of the city of Russell.

In 1984, Mr. Couch became the Assistant Principal/Activities Director of Russell High School. He remainded in that position for two years, before becoming the principal of Russell High School. Mr. Couch served as the principal of RHS from 1986-1991.

In 1991, Mr Couch moved to the USD #407 Central Office; and served as the Assistant Superintendent of Schools. During his tenure as Assistant Superintendent, Mr. Couch was actively involved in many capital improvements to the district and helped to promote the development of technology across the district.

Before joining USD #407, Mr. Couch taught at Windthorst Middle School which was a part of Spearville USD #381. At Windthorst, David taught Eastern Hemisphere, American History, and Kansas History; and he coached junior high football, basketball, and track. He also served as assistant high school football coach at Spearville High School.

A native of Oklahoma, Mr. Couch moved to Kansas in the early 1960's. He graduated from Stockton High School in 1969, and attended Fort Hays State University. He received his Bachelor of Arts degree with a major in history in 1973, and returned the next year to gain teacher certification. In 1981, David received his Master of Science degree from FHSU with a major in secondary school administration. Then in 1986, Mr. Couch received his Specialist in Education degree, also from Fort Hays State University. Mr. Couch's Specialist Degree qualified him as both a K-12 district school administrator and as a K-12 building level administrator.

Mr. Couch's wife, Jerilyn, is the principal's secretary at Bickerdyke Elementary School in Russell. They have three children (Jeremy, Cody, and Amanda). All of their children are grown and away from home.