Principal For A Day
Sam Massell is former mayor of Atlanta, president of the Buckhead Coalition and recently, principal at Garden Hills Elementary School…for a Day! Mr. Massell participated in the Principal for a Day program (PFAD), an annual event sponsored by the Atlanta Partners for Excellence in Education- collaboration of the Atlanta Public Schools and the Metro Atlanta Chamber of Commerce.
The PFAD program provides business and community leaders with the opportunity to get a true picture of public education in action as they serve as principals for a day at an Atlanta public school. Volunteers participate in classroom discussions, meet with parents, read to students, and attend special activities and performances. Above all, the program encourages business-education partnerships by having participants spend time with principals and faculty to share ideas and learn about the joys and challenges that come with running a front-line institution critical to the future of Atlanta.
The PFAD program is practiced in various cities throughout the United States. It was introduced to Atlanta in 1999 by Superintendent Dr. Beverly L. Hall. More than 100 business and civic leaders participate in this annual event which yields new partnerships between schools and major companies each year. Partnerships that provide long-term support can enhance student achievement, and ultimately produce a better-educated workforce for tomorrow. Partners help schools with mentoring and tutoring programs, student and teacher incentives, publicity and fund-raising campaigns, school improvements, special events and many other needs.
PFAD participants have included the Honorable Mayor Shirley Franklin, broadcast journalist, Angela Robinson, heavy weight boxing champion, Evander Holyfield, John Rogers, President & CEO, INVESCO, H. Jerome Russell, President, H.J. Russell & Co., and other top executives, civic leaders, and celebrities of Atlanta.
For questions or further information about next year’s event, contact Marcia White at 404-586-1938 or the APS Communications Office at 404-802-2800.
