The Most Important Person I Met

The Most Important Person I Met

During my life and tenure as a middle school principal, I met some important people. I had the pleasure of meeting people from all over the world. Some were educators, activists, trail blazers, speakers, athletes, scholars, and all-around great people. My career has been supplemented by many people from around the world. It has given me incredible gratitude.

I remember when I first started as principal, and we were being trained in the New Jersey state required, Holocaust curriculum. We had the opportunity to have a visit from a Holocaust survivor, Hannah Pick. She was a childhood friend of Anne Frank. She was compelling in a number of ways. When I met Ms. Pick the first time, she had an aura of kindness and accomplishment that could be felt when we were together. She inspired the students and staffulty with stories of character, courage, and kindness.

Another time, we were privileged to have a stopover by Ruby Bridges. Ms. Bridges was a chance civil rights activist because she was one of the first black students to be integrated into an all-white school. At the age of five, she experienced a world that no one could comprehend. Norman Rockwell painted a captivating image of her first day at school. I felt flattered to share her stories of childhood and adulthood. I had the honor to spend time with Ms. Bridges as she privately shared her personal stories of perseverance.

I met professional athletes including the first one-armed, Division I basketball, scholarship athlete, Kevin Laue. I met Hall of Fame baseball player, Mickey Mantle. I met my childhood hero, three time NCAA basketball player of the year, Bill Walton. I met celebrities that started international service projects. I talked to leading authors and authorities on just about everything.

But, the most important person I met during my entire educational career was “your child.” Every day I have the opportunity to make a difference. Each day, parents trust me with their children. Each day, I do not want to let them down because “I care.” I care about our future, our school, and it all starts with “your child.” There is no higher compliment than someone commending you for taking care of their children each day. Your children have shared their stories, goals, and accomplishments with me, and I’ve shared my stories with them.

It comes from that one smile that you might get or a nod or an acknowledgment. It comes from service and leadership. “Your children” are making a difference in my life, the community, and in the world.

This year alone, our students and staffulty have created awareness for the homeless through hard work and fun. We’ve had promotions and fundraisers that collected thousands of items to stamp out hunger and cold feet. I am proud to have met the most important person in the world, “your child.”  

And when I’m home, my greatest gift every day is my family. “Family Matters” and it comes in many forms. Sometimes, your courage and service come from across the street or across the town. My daughter and I visited my father this week. I realized he needed our help just by cleaning his yard and talking. Never forget those simple tasks. Never forget to take care of people around you. I am grateful for the gift of the people in my life.