56 Springfield leaders serve as SPS Principal for a Day

Standing in a Parkview English classroom, SRC President and CEO Jack Stack watched seniors write an essay. But after writing three books himself, he had a few pieces of advice to share.

"Writing is all about finding an idea and following it," he said. "But writing what you're passionate about, in a way that connects with people, has real staying power."

Brooke was one of 56 professionals from 55 organizations who learned and led alongside educators Friday, Feb. 28. Across Springfield, every school hosted a professional as SPS Principal for a Day. The half-day program is an innovative partnership between Springfield Public Schools and the Springfield Area Chamber of Commerce.

“We believe that informed community leaders become impactful advocates for public education,” said Dr. Grenita Lathan, superintendent. “This was a day for you to see the real, exceptional work of our team of educators and then tell the story of the learning you see.”

Olan Morelan, Assistant Chief of Support Services for Springfield Fire Department, spent the day as principal of Cowden Elementary School. Together with principal Dr. Cherie Norman, Morelan completed a teacher observation, visited a house party and learned more about the personalized instruction at the elementary school.

"I was so impressed by the way that students stand to be called on, that I shook hands and introduced myself to probably 30 students," he said. "These students are invested in their learning and are leaders, and their teachers are cultivating that with a culture focused on relationships."

The half-day experience provided business leaders with a deeper awareness and understanding of SPS, as well as beginning conversations about innovative partnerships. Both goals are related to the district's Strategic Plan focus on building a collaborative culture at SPS.