Get to Know Principal Sarah Smith

October is National Principals Month! To celebrate, we’re sharing short Q&As with each of our principals—giving you a glimpse into their leadership style, favorite parts of school life, and what drives their #PHMExcellence every day.

If you could swap places with a student for one day, what class or activity would you be most excited to participate in — and why?

I think I would go to Mr Reininga’s PLTW class when he is using his 3D printers. Those are just fascinating to me. I love crafts and I would enjoy creating and printing.

What’s your go-to morning routine (or must-have snack/coffee order) that helps you tackle the day?

Wake up, walk the dog, and coffee….in that order!

What were you like as a middle or high school student — and what’s one piece of advice you’d give your younger self?

I think I would tell myself to learn Spanish and do all I can to travel abroad sooner than later. I did not get off the contintent until I was 32.

If your job as a principal had a theme song, what song would be your walk up song–the one playing when you walked into school each day?

Shake It Off – Taylor Swift

What was your favorite school lunch or snack when you were a student? What is your favorite school lunch now as a principal?

Pizza in elementary school. I great spinach salad with carrots feta and grilled chicken.

What’s one fun fact about you that most students or staff don’t know?

I am a Swiftie

Do you have any hidden talents or hobbies outside of school that might surprise people?

I love to needlepoint and read. Boring and not surprising.

What’s one thing on your bucket list you still hope to do one day?

Visit all the Christmas Markets in Europe.

What’s your favorite school tradition or event?

Sparty Sports

If you could describe your school in one word, what would it be?

CONNECT! It is our one word for this year!