By Kyle Florence
Great Lakes Higher Education Corporation

In October, 90 local business and community leaders served as principal partners at all 50 of Madison’s public schools through the Foundation for Madison’s Public Schools’ thirteenth annual A Principal Experience. This event provides an opportunity for local leaders to see firsthand what principals and school staff experience each day and helps schools forge partnerships that support students. Nine principal partners spent their day on the Northside at Gompers Elementary, Lake View Elementary, Lindbergh Elementary, Mendota Elementary and Black Hawk Middle School.

“This was a chance for our community leaders to see what principals and school staff experience on a day-to-day basis,” explained Jackie Smith, principal of Gompers Elementary School. “I feel like a vast majority of our principal partners walk away with a greater interest in public education, while our staff members are able to build meaningful relationships with individuals outside of the district. It’s a win-win for everyone, really.”

According to Smith, this collaborative effort connects the Northside community by giving educators and local leaders a chance to share ideas and resources. “Through this program we’re strengthening partnerships that enrich the lives of our students. In doing so, we’ll be able to better address our school’s unique needs and keep up the Gompers tradition of being safe, responsible and respectful,” Smith said.

Stephanie Well, a print and mail technician at Great Lakes Higher Education Corporation & Affiliates, spent the day shadowing Smith. Together, they greeted students, visited with teachers, and took part in a variety of classroom exercises.

“It was such a positive experience I don’t know where to start,” Well said excitedly. “The part I enjoyed the most was meeting the wonderful staff and students. I’d happily send my children here knowing how many caring professionals are working day and night to help them succeed.”

Well described the experience as “eye-opening” and says she now feels more motivated than ever to give back to the Northside community. “I’m going to be an even stronger advocate for this school than I already was. Gompers houses so much hope, potential, compassion and excitement. We can help communicate that message,” Well said. “I’m really honored I was able to be a part of this. I felt very welcomed by everyone involved, and Principal Smith’s enthusiasm was contagious,” she added.

Alyssa Dunsirn, Great Lakes’ security services manager, spent the day with Principal Kenya Walker at Black Hawk Middle School. Like Well, she also enjoyed this opportunity. “I really liked spending the day with people who were committed to making the community a better place. That’s always uplifting. The people I met were excited about their school and proud to be a part of the Northside,” said Dunsirn.

Dunsirn also gained a new appreciation for Great Lakes’ ongoing efforts to support education in the community. “My biggest takeaway was probably that the work is never done; there’s always more to do,” said Dunsirn. “Everything we do moves these kids that much closer to success, and every little bit makes a big difference.”