Our new school year at Taft not only ushers in the recent ascendency of Principal Ryan Glowacz as commander-in chief, but his two new assistant chiefs, Fakhira Bukhari and Eric Mitchell. These latest additions to Mr. “Glow’s” cabinet of Assistant Principals provide multiple years of education experience and both are eager to create change on a larger scale.
Some may recognize Assistant Principal Bukhari from the Taft Science Department, her domain since 2001. Assistant Principal Mitchell joins us from William Jones College Preparatory High School where he spent eight years as Assistant Principal.
“I’m hoping to get to know the students, teachers, and adults across both campuses and just observe how things are functioning while listening to what can be improved within our district and guidelines,” said Bukhari.
She continued, “I want to be a risk taker within constraints but not limit the creativity and possibilities, to ensure that students and teachers are provided an environment to thrive in academically, and for extracurriculars to support everyone the best they can.”
They both want to create change. They want to connect with students, share ideas about how to make the upcoming school years more engaging. They look forward to gaining student perspectives to better support them. In other words, major change is their goal.
“Administration is a great opportunity to do what I like to do at a larger scale. I feel as an educator, my job is to create opportunities for young people to grow into the citizens they’ll become later in life. As an administrator, I have the ability to impact more teachers, which ultimately helps me support more students,” said Mitchell.
A feeling of support was mentioned regarding their first week experiences. They feel excited for the adventure the new school and position brings. It could be challenging, but if it could help young people grow into those who’ll change the world, it would be worth it.
