Assistant Principal of the Year Finalists
Marion Campbell
Ridgewood Park ES
Number of years in education: 25
Number of years in OCPS: 25
Favorite school tradition:
The end-of-the-year Academic Award Ceremony. I love watching the students throughout the year as they mature and their drive for academic success increases.
What piece of work advice would you share with other educators?
Decisions must always be made in the students' best interests. One of my favorite sayings to staff is that “education is not a sprint but a marathon.”
Someone with your talents could work anywhere. Why OCPS?
I have fond memories of being a student in OCPS and remembering how I was encouraged constantly and told by my teachers and administrators, "You should always reach for the sky!"
A teacher you know is considering becoming an AP. What would you tell them?
They must be effective communicators. You must be approachable, visible, and accessible to faculty members, students, parents, and community stakeholders.
Joyce Conley
Whispering Oak ES
Number of years in education: 13
Number of years in OCPS:13
Favorite school tradition:
One of my favorite “traditions” is the December to Remember calendar. Each day, we celebrate through decorative attire and activities.
What is your why?
I come to work every day hoping that one conversation – whether with a staff member or student – will push someone to their full potential. Knowing how powerful praise or a push can be, I strive to be that for others.
What piece of work advice would you share with other educators?
You can go a LONG way with building professional relationships with colleagues and parents. Having parents understand your passion and rationale will limit a lot of miscommunication and frustration.
Someone with your talents could work anywhere. Why OCPS?
I attended OCPS schools, so this is home for me. Over the years, I have realized that OCPS, while large in size, is extremely small at the same time. We cheer each other on and you feel like you are in a place of family.
John Miller
Meadowbrook MS
Number of years in education: 15.5
Number of years in OCPS: 5.5
Favorite school tradition:
Meadowbrook Middle School’s Daily School Spirit Dress Attire.
What piece of work advice would you share with other educators?
Dr. Jennifer Meningall, the former Vice President of Student Affairs at my alma mater (the University of South Florida #GoBulls) often said: “Be who you are and do good work.” At the core of who we are as educators is a gift to serve students.
Someone with your talents could work anywhere. Why OCPS?
OCPS complements and further develops my skills and talents to support student learning and success.
A teacher you know is considering becoming an AP. What would you tell them?
Surround yourself with knowledgeable colleagues in the same role who can offer guidance, insight, and support. Be open to feedback, manage your time well, and look for opportunities to enhance the learning environment for all students.