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October is National Principals Month

Newtown Square Friends & Neighbors, October 2022

Did you know that October is National Principals Month? We can all agree that principals are some of the hardest working individuals in education. They set the standard and academic tone for their schools, yet often go unrecognized for their tireless efforts. Let’s use this time as an opportunity to come together to honor our amazing principals and thank them for their leadership, forward vision and dedication to the success of every student. 

National Principals Month is a collaboration between the American Federation of School Administrators (AFSA), the National Association of Elementary School Principals (NAESP), and the National Association of Secondary School Principals (NASSP).

Each October, they seek to honor our principals for their tireless efforts in pursuit of excellence in education. 

We are very fortunate to live in a community with award-winning schools led by principals who love what they do. Let’s hear what they have to say!

What do you love about being the Principal of your school? 

John Beltrante – Marple Newtown High School
My favorite part about being the principal of MNHS is talking with the students. Having conversations and discussions with them and hearing about their experiences in life and their perspectives on things that are happening around them makes you proud of how well they can rationalize and form an opinion on things. As educators, we have a lot to offer our students as we share our experiences and life lessons, but there is also a lot we can learn from our students.

Dr. TJ Gretchen – Paxon Hollow Middle School
My favorite thing about being a principal is interacting with our students. For those who remember, middle school can be some of the toughest years of your life. I sincerely enjoy getting to know our students and watching them grow from elementary school students into freshmen in high school.

James Wigo – Culbertson Elementary School
My favorite thing about being the principal of Culbertson Elementary School is being a part of the family atmosphere that we have created. Our teachers and staff do an unbelievable job of making all our students feel comfortable, which in turn allows our students to grow both academically and socially. It is truly a pleasure to work with the parents/guardians of this community who fully support the learning process that Culbertson presents to their children.  

Jaime Smyth – Loomis Elementary School
There are a million reasons why I love being the Principal of Loomis Elementary School, but if I had to narrow it down, I would emphatically say, “THE KIDS at LOOMIS!” They are my why. They are my purpose and my constant inspiration to take action. I love getting to know every child and enjoy working with their talented teachers. The Loomis community, our supportive PTO, and our dedicated teachers help make Loomis a great place to learn. You can just feel the love when you walk through our doors. 

Dennis Reardon – Russell Elementary School
My favorite part about being principal at Russell Elementary School is the collaboration between our staff and school community to contribute to our students reaching their potential as learners and people. As we say every day, “It’s Great to be a Tiger”!

Dr. Stephanie Sturdivant – Worrall Elementary School
As Principal of Worrall School, my favorite thing about being the Principal is getting to work with all our students and families! I love how hardworking and kind our kids are, and I am grateful for how collaborative and supportive our families are. We have a fantastic staff at Worrall, and I am privileged to work with them towards the growth and success of all our students!

Mark Dixon – Delaware County Christian School Head of Upper School
I consider it a privilege every day to journey with young people and their families as they grow in perseverance, character and hope during arguably the most formative season of life. Go Knights!


Eileen Vice – Cardinal O’Hara High School
My favorite thing about being principal of Cardinal O’Hara is of course the students! As an alum, it is so nice to share the wonderful O’Hara traditions with such motivated, talented, hardworking students!

 


Jill Dougherty – Stratford Friends School Head of School
The best part of serving as Stratford Friends Head of School, is getting to work with amazing teachers, families, and students. Together we create a community that appreciates the gifts and supports the needs of all of our wonderful students.


Dr. TJ Locke – The Greville Haslam Head of School  The Episcopal Academy
My favorite part about leading a school is greeting the students during the morning carpool. I love seeing the kids jumping out of the car, smiling from ear to ear, ready to start their day.

 


Beth Doyle – Saint Anastasia School
The best thing about being a principal is definitely the kids! They bring blessings into my life on a daily basis. Each of their smiles, their jokes and their thanks makes my life better. They are the future and to be able to have a positive influence on the future is a huge responsibility but one I take very seriously and is extremely rewarding to me.


Sister Kathleen Touey, IHM – Saint Pius X School
Being a principal is a treasured position. The beauty of encountering the students and recognizing their unique gifts gives you such a  deep sense of meaning. Watching each student become the person that they are created to be is an awesome experience to watch. I feel privileged to be a part of their life’s journey.   

Our principals are there when we need them, and now they need us. Use your voice this month to honor, thank, and advocate for all principals during National Principals Month! Write a note of thanks, give a gift of appreciation and let everyone know when you #ThankAPrincipal.