This week’s featured Q&A is with Dr. Doug Szokoly, principal of Cornell High School in the Cornell School district.
What is something positive that you want others to know about your school?
Dr. Szokoly: Cornell School District is a tremendous place to work because of the overall size of the district. We are a small school district that typically graduated approximately 40 students per year and given that number, I am able to get to know each and every one of these students on a personal level.
What do you love about being a principal?
Dr. Szokoly: I enjoy being a principal because of the significant impact I can have on students’ lives and the opportunity to build a strong school community. Knowing that my efforts contribute to students’ growth and success, and fostering a positive and inclusive environment for everyone in the school, are the aspects I find most rewarding.
In your opinion, what is the future of education?
Dr. Szokoly: I think the future of education looks to be trending in a positive direction. A lot of focus is being placed on personalized learning, blended/hybrid learning, equity and inclusion and an emphasis on lifelong learning to name a few. Creating an environment for our students that focuses on these trends, the future of education will be dynamic and adaptive to the changing world around us.