‘Principal for a Day’ continues in our schools
- Shanda Crosby
- 21 hours ago
- 2 min read
Our Principal for a Day program continued this past week with Judge Kimberly Blair Walson at Shearer Elementary, and Winchester Police Chief Travis Thompson at Baker Intermediate.
Both leaders said their first-ever experience as Principal for a Day gave them a new perspective on the work educators do each day.
At Shearer Elementary, Judge Walson said she enjoyed every moment of being surrounded by students and staff — and even had a special family connection in the building.
“It's a breath of fresh air to be here with these kids,” said Judge Walson, whose grandson, Wyatt, is in kindergarten. “I've really enjoyed seeing the teachers, meeting the lunch staff, meeting the security officer, and just kind of getting a feel for what school’s like.”
She reflected on how experiences like this connect directly to her work as a public servant. “My job is to help families, and at the end of the day, the heart of that is kids,” she said. “I’ve been able to see how my work affects how they live. This experience helps us all get back to the heart of our work, which is do our best to help kids have the safest and happiest childhood they can have.”
Judge Walson said schools deserve credit. “It’s obvious these kiddos are loved by teachers and staff and that’s the case at all of our schools,” she said. “I'm very proud to be part of this community and see that happen firsthand.”
At Baker Intermediate, Chief Thompson said his day provided a clearer understanding of school operations and an encouraging look at how students view law enforcement.
“As law enforcement, we’re familiar with the layout of the schools, but we're not familiar with how the principal runs the school or why they do certain things during the day or how they transition students and details like that,” he said. “It’s been eye-opening and encouraging.”
He said he appreciated the students’ warm reception. “The best thing about today is the kids have been really welcoming of me instead of being scared of me,” he said. “That means that my officers being around the schools so much is making a difference.”
Chief Thompson’s day included visiting classrooms, meeting with staff, and even lending a hand with an unexpected maintenance issue. “I can't think of anything more important in the world,” he said, “than being present and involved in our schools and making sure our children grow up to take our places.”
We are fortunate to have so many public servants who are willing to participate in Principal for a Day. Thank you, Judge Walson and Chief Thompson, for giving your time to our students.
