Each week, Education World profiles a different school principal. His
or her responses offer insight into what it takes to be a principal, what
a principal's day is like, and the special challenges a principal faces.
Lucie Boyadjian
Your school:
Glen Oaks School, a grade 2-5 school in Hickory Hills, Illinois (600 students).
Number of years in that position:
Six years.
Your education experience:
I was a classroom teacher for 20 years before becoming a principal.
How did you get your job as principal?
I was promoted within the school district.
What is your education motto or mantra?
"Seek to understand before being understood."
What is an unforgivable trait in a colleague?
Giving up on a student.
What's the first thing you do when you get to
work in the morning?
I say "good morning" to the school secretary or turn on my computer.
Who or what most influenced your decision to
become an educator?
I guess I always had a teacher quality about me -- even as a child. When
I gathered the neighborhood kids and played school, I was always the teacher.
What is the biggest challenge you will face this
school year?
Limited space, overcrowding.
What do you do to relieve stress?
I go for long walks, go shopping, talk to colleagues, plan a vacation,
or visualize retirement in seven years.
What is the most important quality of a strong
school leader?
Having a vision -- knowing where your school is and where you want to
take it.
What have you been reading lately? Forgotten Fire; How to Think About the Great Ideas; and Past
Lives, Future Healing.
If you're having a good day at work, what makes
it good?
The entire day goes about with total positive energy and not one single
problem develops.
If you could have a different career, what would
that be?
I can't see myself outside of education, but playing Minnie at Disney
World sounds grand!
Your school: