By Chloe Futrell, Editor-in-Chief
When Caroline Pearce got the news that she would take the place of former Principal Tim Albert, she was both shocked and saddened.
Albert announced in February that he would retire at the end of the school year, then had to take family medical leave instead, finishing out his long career in education at home rather than in the halls of FFHS.
“He and his wife are caretakers of her adult brother with multiple health issues,” Pearce explained. “The two of them have cared for ‘Bubbe’ selflessly and unconditionally. I never want to profit by the misfortune of a friend.”
Pearce was named Interim Principal once Albert left the first week of April. With the new role placed upon her shoulders, Pearce decided to take this opportunity to embrace change, and she did so with the support of staff and students.
“I remember that change may be difficult, but it is inevitable, and I began to embrace my new role,” Pearce said. “Each day has been both challenging and exhilarating, and I am so genuinely thankful for the confidence and support I have been shown.”
Pearce will act as principal until the end of the school year. According to Superintendent Dr. John Farrelly, interviews for the new principal will begin at the end of May and the announcement of the 2019-2020 First Flight principal will come by July 1.
This change has not been hard in the physical sense, but rather in the adjustment to new responsibilities for Pearce.
“Walking 25 additional steps to the ‘big’ office was easy. Keeping my own phone extension number in the ‘big’ office was easy,” Pearce said. “Adjusting to being the ‘final word’ was hard.”
Pearce has taken on numerous roles and has worn many new hats since taking on the role of interim principal.
“I now have to sign all the checks and certificates, conference with seniors and their parents about passing courses necessary for graduation, officially preside at the plethora of FFHS functions and leave the building for meetings,” Pearce said.
Taking care of the new activities and responsibilities has been worth it for Pearce, although sometimes she misses her one-on-one interactions with students.
“Being out of the building during the school day is the most difficult because I cherish the time and conversation I have with FFHS students and teachers,” Pearce said.
Pearce plans to return to her previous position of assistant principal next year.
“Each year in March all DCS staff sign an ‘Intent to Return’ form; I signed mine to return,” Pearce stated. “However, I do occasionally exercise my prerogative to change my mind.”
Most students couldn’t imagine FFHS without Pearce somewhere in the main office.
“She’s nice to everybody and does well with kids,” senior Payton Smith said.
While her new position has come with many trials and tribulations, overall, Pearce has had a positive experience. “It is my genuine privilege to serve as the FFHS interim principal,” she said.
Senior Chloe Futrell can be reached at futrellch1114@daretolearn.org.
