Lint Retires From MLK ELC, Walden Named Interim

Christian County Public Schools announces leadership changes at Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Early Learning Center

Published on Mar. 6, 2026

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Christian County Public Schools has announced the retirement of Kim Lint, principal at the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Early Learning Center, effective April 1. The district has named Michelle Walden as interim principal, who has served as Director of Elementary Education since 2025 and has 25 years of experience with the district.

Why it matters

The transition in leadership at the MLK Early Learning Center is significant as the school serves the district's youngest students and their families. Walden's experience in early and elementary instruction is expected to provide stability during this change.

The details

Kim Lint is retiring after 31 years in education, including the past seven years as principal of the MLK Early Learning Center. Superintendent Chris Bentzel thanked Lint for her leadership and dedication to early childhood education. Michelle Walden, who has served as Director of Elementary Education since 2025, was named interim principal. Walden began her career in 2001 as a teacher and has held various roles in the district, including instructional coach, assistant principal, and instructional supervisor.

  • Kim Lint's retirement is effective April 1, 2026.
  • Michelle Walden was named interim principal following Lint's announcement.

The players

Kim Lint

Retiring principal of the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Early Learning Center after 31 years in education, including 7 years with Christian County Public Schools.

Chris Bentzel

Superintendent of Christian County Public Schools.

Michelle Walden

Interim principal of the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Early Learning Center and current Director of Elementary Education for Christian County Public Schools, with 25 years of experience in the district.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

What’s next

The district plans to post the principal position soon and begin the process of selecting a permanent replacement for the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Early Learning Center.

The takeaway

The transition in leadership at the MLK Early Learning Center highlights the importance of experienced and dedicated educators in providing stability and continuity for the district's youngest students and their families.