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Torrence T. Allen

Alumni | J.C. Harmon High School, Class of 1991

My journey in education began with my academic pursuit and has been a fulfilling career dedicated to shaping future leaders and uplifting those around me while pursuing excellence in education and serving my community

My formal educational journey began at Neosho County Community College, where I earned an Associate of Arts degree in the Fall of 1991. This milestone set the foundation for further academic achievements, including a Bachelor of Liberal Arts from the University of Missouri-Kansas City in 2003 and a Teaching Certification from Avila University in 2008. Continuing my commitment to education, I earned my Master’s in Secondary Education Administration from Emporia State University in the Spring of 2014. Finally, I completed my Education Specialist Degree in Fall 2019 at Arkansas State University, demonstrating my lifelong commitment to learning and development.

While achieving my Associate of Arts degree, Bachelor of Liberal Arts degree, and Teaching Certification, I balanced multiple roles. During this time, I was actively coaching three sports, serving as a substitute teacher, and working at the National Youth Sports Program (NYSP) during the summers. These experiences not only strengthened my dedication to education but also honed my leadership and mentorship skills, which have become cornerstones of my career.

In 1995 I began my professional journey as a coach and substitute teacher and later as a Business Teacher at Sumner Academy. Over the course of 19 years, I coached football, basketball, track, and wrestling. These years of coaching were a vital part of my career as I mentored student-athletes, instilling values of discipline, teamwork, and perseverance. 

In 1999 I served as an Activities Director at Kansas City Kansas Community College, where I supervised a team of 60 staff members and implemented programs that followed NCAA policy and guidelines. This role allowed me to make a difference in the lives of thousands of students from KCK by providing guidance and structure in both athletic and drug and alcohol awareness.

Over time, my career progressed, and I took on the role of Assistant Principal at Ruskin High School in the Hickman Mills C-1 School District in 2015. In this capacity, I focused on fostering academic growth and discipline in a leadership role. By 2017, I was promoted to Principal in the Hickman Mills C-1 School District, a role I cherished until 2022 when I joined the Belton 124 School District as Principal. As a principal, I have always prioritized servant leadership—putting the needs of my students, staff, and community first. I firmly believe in empowering others through guidance and mentorship, fostering an environment of collaboration and support. I continue to live by the core values of culture for service and service for humanity.

My commitment to service extends beyond the classroom. I have been deeply involved in my community through various leadership roles. I served as the Director of the Sigma Beta Club for several years as a Member of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc. an organization dedicated to mentoring young men and shaping them into future leaders. Additionally, I have been involved in Macedonia Baptist Church for many years, where I am the Co-Chairman Deacon, supporting the Chairman in overseeing 60 deacons and partnering with our Pastor to provide spiritual leadership to our congregation. During my time at Ruskin High School with the support of my Principal advisor group, we implemented Harvester food distribution once a month to serve the HMC1 community.

I have also been recognized for my contributions both in education and community service. My honors and awards include being named Volunteer of the Year by the Kansas Children Service League in 2000, receiving the Wyandotte County Trailblazer Award in 2014, and being named “Coach of the Year” for the KCAL League four times. In 2018, I was honored with the Outstanding Administrator Award by the Speech and Theatre Association of Missouri (STEM) and the Outstanding Community Service Award from the South Kansas City Alliance (SKCA). In 2020 I received the Administrator of the Year Trails West District (Missouri Ass. of Student Council) and Administrator of the Year Missouri HOSA awards. 

One of the highlights of my career has been my involvement in various professional organizations. I have the pleasure of serving as  President of the Greater Kansas City Missouri Principal Association (GKCMPA) for the 24-25 School Year. As a member of the GKCMPA board, I  have been able to advocate for educational excellence and support other administrators in their professional development. I am also a proud member of MoASSP (Missouri Association of Secondary School Principals), and BLOC (Brothers Liberating Our Communities). 

At the core of my achievements is my family, who have supported me every step of the way. My wife, Kizzy Allen, has been my rock, standing by my side through the many phases of my career. Together, we have raised two incredible sons, Torrence Allen Jr. and Iryn Allen, who continue to make us proud. We are also blessed with two grandsons, Dior Alle, and Kyro Allen, who bring joy and energy to our lives. my mother, Dian Allen, has been an enduring source of inspiration and strength throughout my journey. Additionally, my extended family has remained a constant source of encouragement and support.

Looking ahead, my focus remains on continuing to serve my community and advancing the field of education. Whether in the classroom, on the athletic field, or within the broader community. I am grateful for the opportunities I have had and look forward to the many more that lie ahead.

Torrence Allen