In order for our future leaders to succeed, we have to ensure they are being well-taught and cultivated. Principal of Hanover Central High School Tami Kepshire knows this all too well. Formerly a respiratory therapist and a teacher, Kepshire has dedicated her life to making sure those she works with are prepared.
“I love what I’m doing,” Kepshire said. “It’s so different than being a teacher, yet I still have the power to make a difference in these students’ lives.”
Kepshire states that she views each student at the school as if they were her own. She looks out for their best interest and tries her best to make sure they are developing in a strong, supportive environment.
“What really motivates me in my position is ensuring the students are getting a quality education and experience here at the school,” Kepshire said. “In addition, we have to make sure we are setting our students up for success once they are out of high school. I would also say that the students are just as good at teaching us as we are at teaching them.”
When it comes to being a school principal, Kepshire offered two pieces of advice: never be afraid to ask questions and ask for help, and have fun in your position.
“I don’t know everything and I am willing to reach out to someone when I need something,” Kepshire said. “Also, it helps to have a sense of humor. Even in these times, we still find things to laugh about and we still enjoy working at Hanover.”
The COVID-19 pandemic has not made her job easy, but Kepshire and all other employees at Hanover are still determined to make sure the students are getting what they need during these turbulent times.
“Working with the students when they are not in the building while still following protocol has been difficult,” Kepshire said. “But we are working together and adapting to the situation.”
Throughout her years of working in the education field, Kepshire said that she has learned how to have more patience, which is an integral part of her job.
“As a principal, I’m having the time of my life,” Kepshire said. “I have grown so much as a person and have learned a lot. I’ve gained a lot of confidence along the way, and I’m enjoying my time at Hanover so much.”