Power of the Principal: What does the job entail?

As a new principal was recently chosen to administrate Westside High School for the 2016-2017 school year, current Principal Maryanne Ricketts educates our community with the importance of a principal figure. Ricketts has demonstrated the guidelines of the position for the past five years.

“As a principal, I wear many hats, as all principals do,” Ricketts said. “I am a manager, cheerleader, counselor, decision maker, problem solver, and a relationship builder.”

Ricketts works closely with Westside’s administrative team to make sure the school is headed in the same direction with instruction and concerns. Ricketts oversees the daily operations of the building and the maintenance that takes place.

“It is my responsibility to make sure we have strong teaching and provide an environment in which we engage students,” Ricketts said.

A strong sense of leadership and responsibility are key components that make up a good principal. Ricketts takes part in many school and community-related events, including graduation ceremonies, parent coffees throughout the school year, Board of Education meetings, and more. She also compiles data and writing reports frequently.

“Everything I do is to provide a safe, positive learning environment for our students and staff,” Ricketts said. “I love the fact, too, that our teachers work incredibly hard to do everything they can to help students in all areas of [each student’s] life.”

When Ricketts is not on campus, she is busy with managing Westside’s budget, attending meetings, which involves hiring/maintaining staff, and working directly with Department Heads to ensure everything is for the benefit of Westside students.

As the school year slowly (but surely) comes to an end, Ricketts reflects on her time here at Westside.

“As a principal I believe in our students and staff and the journey we are on together. I’ve learned I do not need to do everything or always need to be involved because I work with a very capable and professional staff,” Ricketts said. “It is great to have had shared leadership. We are all working together for a common cause.”