From the Principal's Desk: "I Intend to Celebrate a Culture of Pride"

Dear  Community:

Maybe you remember…back in February, 2011, the Academy Awards recognized The King’s Speech as the best film of 2010. It’s the story of a man who overcomes the challenges of self-expression so that he can lead his nation. “Because I have a voice!” King George VI says when confronted by his friend. The film’s true story is that of a relationship; one that serves to raise the confidence and self-worth in a person who otherwise, wouldn’t have had the courage and ability to speak to his constituents.

A few of you may recognize the words above. It’s the beginning of the cover letter I wrote last February as part of my application to become the AMS Principal. It is mid-August now, and February seems so long ago. So much has transpired since then. But the message is still fresh for me: a leader needs to express his proud voice in order to lead a successful community.

In the past few months, I have had the honor of with the AMS school community. There are people and programs that already deserve recognition. There is an abundance of hard work as people prepare to open the school buildings. And, there are community members reaching out to demonstrate support. For me, what’s most exciting is that this is just the beginning. 

Here begins the thirteenth edition of the Cobra Clarion. A successful school principal establishes and manages links between the site and the larger community. Part of that responsibility includes ongoing communication about the values and beliefs of the people inside and outside of the school. And so, in the coming editions of the Cobra Clarion, look for messages about trust, community, change, transition and more. 

Of course, schools need to function safely and efficiently. So, there will also be an abundance of technical and operational information. (Please review the rest of this bulletin and the contents of the orientation packet for details on programs, policies, and announcements.)

Most importantly in these letters; I intend to celebrate a culture of PRIDE. Whether it is in the way we organize the daily operations, the way we deliver our instructional programs, or the ways in which you support us; messages about what we are proud of will be abundant.  Be prepared to reflect on this:  What have you done today to make you feel proud?”

Thank you for welcoming me into your community.  I am proud to serve as the new Principal of Albany Middle School.

Sincerely,   

Peter I. Parenti, Principal
Albany Middle School

This letter originally appeared in Albany Middle School's Cobra Clarion and has been reprinted here with permission. Learn how to sign up for the middle school email newsletter , and scrolling to the '"schools" section. Click the green "Keep me posted!" button below to receive an alert when we post a new message from Principal Parenti.

See more from the principal's desk here.