Matthew Kindberg

The Southwestern Central School District Board of Education has named Matthew Kindberg its high school principal.

Kindberg will succeed Scott Cooper, the high school’s outgoing principal.

A Jamestown resident, Kindberg has served as secondary principal for Southwestern since 2019, and assumes his new role July 1, 2025. He is excited to lead the high school and says he is going to focus on collaboration, data-driven decision-making and student-centered learning.

“I will continue to prioritize the work of building strong relationships with students, staff, families and our community partners while fostering a positive and supportive school culture,” Kindberg said.

Scott Cooper, the high school’s outgoing principal, has worked with Kindberg since he became the assistant principal.

“It’s been delightful to work with Matt over the past several years and as my retirement nears, it is comforting to know someone so caring and dedicated will continue to guide our students,” says Cooper. “Our families will be in good hands with Principal Kindberg.”

Superintendent Maureen Donahue, who is also retiring this summer and will be succeeded by Molly Moore, the district’s current instructional services director, concurs and says Kindberg is a “perfect fit” for the high school.

“It has been nothing but smooth sailing with Matt Kindberg on Team Southwestern,” Donahue said. “He has a calm, reassuring and authoritative presence and we are fortunate to have someone who works so diligently for the sake of all our students.”

Kindberg holds an associate degree in education from Jamestown Community College, a bachelor’s degree in social studies adolescent education from the State University at Fredonia and a master’s degree in literacy education also from SUNY Fredonia. He has an advanced certificate in school district leadership and completed the New York State Superintendent’s Development Program via SUNY Oswego.

Prior to joining Southwestern in 2019, Kindberg worked as a social studies teacher from 2008 to 2019 at Clymer Central School District. Kindberg notes it has been an “absolute pleasure” working with the Southwestern administration over the past five years.

“I have learned a tremendous amount from both Superintendent Maureen Donahue and Principal Scott Cooper and thank them both for their mentorship and support of me,” Kindberg said.

In his free time, Kindberg enjoys running (he has completed six full marathons) as well as reading and traveling. He is heavily involved in the community. He is co-vice president of Jamestown High School’s 100 Member Club Alumni Organization and belongs to the scholarship committee of the Chautauqua Region Community Foundation. In addition, he belongs to Zion Covenant Church, where he serves as a member of its preaching team and Adult Education Committee.

Kindberg said he’s looking forward to working alongside Molly Moore, the leadership team, staff, students, and community partners.

“I’m committed to creating a school environment where all students feel valued, challenged and inspired to reach their full potential,” says Kindberg.