Mindy McGinn is the new Lakes Elementary School principal. SNN gets to know her in this edition of Meet the Principal.
Other positions you have held in education:
- Principal, Voyager Elementary School, Howell Public Schools
- Assistant Principal, Howell High School Freshman Campus
- Teacher, Southwest Elementary School, Howell Public Schools
- Teacher, S. J. Geir Elementary School, Hillsdale Community Schools
How about jobs outside education? In college I was an employee at the UC Bookstore on campus, and I worked in the art department. I also spent some time painting interiors and exteriors of houses.
Education and degrees:
- Master of Arts in K-12 administration, Michigan State University
- Bachelor of Science in Education (physical science major, language arts minor), Central Michigan University
Spouse/children: I married the love of my life, Ryan, about 12 years ago. We have three beautiful children who keep us on our toes.
Hobbies/Interests/Little-known talent: I am a beachcomber and rock collector.
What kind of kid were you at the age of students at this new school? When I was in elementary school, I was all about sports: basketball, softball, soccer. If there was a game to be played, I was ready to play it. I was a collector of stickers and teddy bears. I was unengaged as a student for years. It wasn’t until I reached far into my college experience when someone actually lit the engagement fire within me.
The biggest lesson you have learned from students is… I have learned that all students really do want to do well in school. They come to school carrying all the “tools” they have with them. They try as hard as they can with the skills they have developed. This perspective helps me celebrate all children for the individual successes they achieve.
Finish this sentence: If I could go back to school I would… return to high school, but only if I could take all that I have learned in life with me. I would be more of an engaged student, and I would be able to better maneuver through social situations.
If you walked into your new school building to theme music by a favorite artist or band, what would the song be? I love the song “Rise Up” by Andra Day. I believe we are all called to be a better version of ourselves each day. In addition, I believe we are called to help one another rise up and do great things. Rise up and lead. Rise up and read. Rise up and show kindness to one another. How can we all rise up to make the world a better place?
