Live A Fantasy: Principal For A Day.

By Marilyn Machlowitz

The hardest working person I ever met was the principal of a Brooklyn elementary school. I observed her in her office and accompanied her on her rounds throughout the school.  

I was fortunate to be assigned to her when I volunteered to be a Principal for a Day. This is an annual program run, in New York City, by PENCIL, a nonprofit which connects students to success.

Many other cities offer Principal for a Day programs. In NYC, over 9,000 people have served as Principal for a Day in more than 1,000 public K-12 schools since the program began in 1995. They include executives, entrepreneurs, nonprofit leaders, civic leaders, celebrities and retirees. Some have even served as guest principals at schools they once attended!

As I shadowed the principal, I did not get to make an announcement over the public address system, but I did get to spend time in classes and eat lunch (a thigh-high salad bar and pb&j) with students. I learned that lunch was free for all students rather than free only for some students and potentially stigmatizing. I loved the entire day!

Other volunteers have read to classes, met with student councils, examined technology labs, observed band or chorus practice, helped supervise recess, and met with teachers.

Gregg Betheil, CEO of PENCIL, told me that New York was the first city to offer Principal for a Day (PFAD) but he knows PFAD programs exist all over the country. He views the one-day program is a “pipeline to engage with schools” showing adults “the power and potential of public schools.”

One day program, long-term benefits

PFAD is designed to open eyes and wallets. In some communities, local legislators get a first-hand look at public schools and build relationships between elected officials and school districts. In other programs, executives offer insights into their industries and possible career trajectories. At PENCIL, PFAD experiences have led to mentorship and paid internships for students.

Whether you are or were a veterinarian, shop owner, hairdresser, journalist, social media manager, chef, lawyer, travel agent or anything else, students will be eager to hear about your career.

To volunteer at this annual event, in NY, check www.pencil.org  

Elsewhere, search online under Principal for a Day. Here’s one for Illinois;

You’ll have a wonderful time, and you’ll be doing good.

Marilyn Machlowitz lives, works, volunteers, and writes in NYC.