Happy New Month! May 1 is a day to annually take time out to thank the educational leaders of our schools on School Principals’ Day.

But, this May 1 and School Principals’ Day may be one of the hardest ones our local principals have ever had, with school facilities closed for over a month due to the coronavirus pandemic and uncertainty about summer school and the start of the 2020-21 year this upcoming August. If you see one today thank them profusely for the work they do — through your face covering if you get that close.

Throughout the school year, these educators assume the commitment to lead our young people to a prosperous future. They support and guide quality teachers and staff, resulting in productive learning environments for our children. Whether they lead an elementary, middle, or high school, a principal shows leadership skills while being approachable. Many students see their principals as role models.

And it’s because principals wear many hats leading a school — administrator, negotiator, budget balancer, role model, fearless leader, counselor, procurement specialist — you get the gist. They are basically CEOs of their schools!

They guide the academic success and set the tone for an entire school. In most settings, they are a visible leader, one the students and teachers see daily.

Teachers rely on principals to ensure the schools provide the necessary equipment and resources. They also rely on principals to counsel and discipline students when needed. A principal represents the school at community events and meets with superintendents and community members, too.

This #SchoolPrincipalsDay celebrates school principals, both past and present. Organize an event to thank your principal. Bring breakfast, coffee, or just a thank card, letting them know you appreciate all their time and patience with the kids and parents. Give a shout out to a school principal who influenced you during your school career. Break out the yearbook and share a photo and let them know how important they were to you!

And when they open back up, hopefully sooner than later, offer to volunteer at your school. By supporting your school’s extracurricular activities such as band, choir, speech, and athletics, you’re also supporting your principals in their endeavors. And they need all of our support, especially during these trying times.