Representing Michigan in Washington, D.C. as High School Principal of the Year was one of the most meaningful experiences of my professional career. It was an incredible honor and a moment that I will carry with me for years to come.
From the moment I arrived, I felt genuinely celebrated. Yet alongside that sense of pride was a quiet question that surfaced more than once: Do I belong here? Surrounded by some of the most accomplished principals in the nation, I found myself reflecting on my own journey and wondering if I measured up to the remarkable leaders around me.
What quickly became clear, however, was that the principals gathered there were not focused on comparing accomplishments. Instead, they were focused on learning from one another, supporting one another, and celebrating one another. As conversations unfolded, I realized that despite representing different states, communities, and schools, we shared many of the same challenges, hopes, and commitments to students. Those connections reminded me that leadership is not about having all the answers. It is about showing up every day in service of others.
Perhaps the most inspiring part of the experience was meeting the students. Their intelligence, character, resilience and passion for making a difference were extraordinary. Listening to their stories and hearing about their aspirations was a powerful reminder of why we do this work. They represented the very best of our schools and our future.
As the week progressed, the self doubt that had accompanied me began to fade. In its place grew a deep sense of gratitude and confidence. I came to understand that I belonged in that room, not because of any individual accomplishment, but because of the collective work of the students, staff, families and community I am privileged to serve.
I left Washington humbled by the experience, inspired by the people I met, and proud to represent Midland High School and the state of Michigan. It was a truly memorable experience that reinforced my belief in the power of education, the importance of leadership, and the extraordinary potential of the young people we serve.
