The official site of the Torch, the student-run newspaper at Glenbrook North High School.

Torch

The official site of the Torch, the student-run newspaper at Glenbrook North High School.

Torch

The official site of the Torch, the student-run newspaper at Glenbrook North High School.

Torch

Tips for students to aid Finan’s transition to principal

Photo by Gabe Weininger
Photo by Gabe Weininger

The most significant change to Glenbrook North in the next school year will be at the helm of its administration. On Feb. 18, the district announced John Finan, associate principal of administrative services, will be the new principal, effective July 1. Making the move from associate principal to principal and hitting the ground running from day one is easier said than done, so, in order to make this transition easier for Finan, students should consider following this advice.

 

Help Finan learn the names of as many students as possible. Calling students by their names shows that the principal values each person as an individual. It is one way for the principal to express familiarity and significance on a personal level. That being said, it is a substantial task to attempt to learn the names of around 2,000 students. If a student has yet to meet Finan, he or she should take the initiative to introduce himself or herself to him. Principal Paul Pryma said students should continue to remind Finan of their names to make them easier to remember.

Use Student Advisory Board as a means for communication with the principal and administration.

Student Advisory Board meets about once a month and is comprised of select students from all grades. Relevant school-related topics are addressed at each meeting. These topics include providing feedback and input on school events and upcoming renovation projects. This group is led, in part, by the principal and other members of the school’s administration. Student feedback during these meetings directly provides the administration with varying perspectives on current issues, ongoing problems and new projects relevant to the student body. If students have ideas or concerns about the school, they should speak to members of the board or seek to apply for a position on it so their voice can be heard.

 

Be yourself. 

Part of what makes GBN special is the individuality of each student in the building. Though the principal will change for this upcoming school year, that does not mean students need to change. Join Finan in taking ownership of this unique environment. Pryma often says, “There is only one ‘us.’” Students should respect themselves, appreciate themselves and take pride in themselves. With that, a positive atmosphere will come for Finan to begin his tenure as principal.