John Martin, MS, serves as the Director of Permanency with KVC, bringing nearly 35 years of experience dedicated to supporting children, teens and families in Northeast Kansas.

He began his career working with youth while an undergraduate at Washburn University, later earning a Bachelor of Arts in History from Washburn, followed by a Master of Science in Education and a Master of Science in Education Administration from Emporia State University. His professional journey includes 10 years as a teacher and coach and 20 years as an administrator, serving students and families across every level of education—from kindergarten to high school.

In his current role, John provides leadership to KVC’s permanency work, ensuring children and teens are connected to safe, stable and nurturing families. His deep background in education equips him with a unique understanding of how structure, guidance and compassion can transform lives.

“Helping others is a theme that was talked about around nightly at the dinner table for me growing up and now we take time talk about public service and the importantance of being kind to our own kids. I was lucky enough to have a grandmother who took my brothers and sisters in when my parents died when I was young man. I know personally the value of having permanency and being able to stay with siblings.”— John Martin

Today, his work continues to be guided by that early lesson: that every child deserves not only safety and stability, but also enduring connection and belonging.