For many of us growing up, a trip to the principal’s office could be traumatic. It could mean anything from a scheduling problem to a punishment for some misbehavior.
Most people only get to see one side of what a principal does. But a program by the Jersey City public schools and the Hudson County Chamber of Commerce will allow people to get a fuller picture of the duties and routines that principals in their local schools go through.
The program is looking for volunteers to take part in the Fifth Annual Principal for a Day program to be held on May 5.
“You will learn first-hand about the challenges our schools face and you will help develop long-term, productive relationships that strengthen our community and support enhanced student achievement.” – Brittani Bunney
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“You get to look at what a principal does and how the schools work,” said Brittani Bunney, manager for leasing and community relations for the development company Silverman, one of the chief sponsors of the program.
This day will be followed when all those who participate meet for a Principal for a Day get-together on June 29.
Bunney said this allows people and organizations to develop relationships with neighborhood schools, and often create ties that go well beyond the one day they spend together.
“Your participation will act as an example for other business leaders to help provide for the successful future of our community,” she said.
Lasting impressions
Since 2012, over 160 Principals for a Day made lasting impressions on the schoolchildren, teachers, and administrators. The business and community leaders shared a wealth of knowledge and enthusiasm
The partnership between Jersey City public schools and the Chamber of Commerce is also an effort to promote local business involvement in our public schools.
“You will learn first-hand about the challenges our schools face and you will help develop long-term, productive relationships that strengthen our community and support enhanced student achievement,” Bunney said.
The day provides participants with a close view of routine operations principals and other facilitators deal with day in and day out, including curriculum, facilities, software, security and academics.
Paul Silverman, one of the owners of Silverman, took part in the program as superintendent when the program started, touring all of the district’s schools, visiting classrooms where he was able to get an inside view of how things worked.
Registration forms are available by calling Bunney at (201)714-2334. Or email her at brittani@silvermanbuilding.com.The deadline for registering is April 8.
“After you register, we will email you with a school assignment and other pertinent information before the big day,” Bunney said.
Al Sullivan may be reached at asullivan@hudsonreporter.com.