People often fill unforeseen roles when holding a job; this is no different with our own high school principal, Mr. Ryan Rollinger. First, the basic requirements needed to acquire the position and hold it contain their own unique challenges. A principal is always thinking of the future and creatively tackling any challenges that arise. Experience also helps a lot in the job, as Mr. Rollinger explained, “Experience gives you perspective and insight.” Not to mention, the role requires extensive time and effort over the summer, completing tasks such as finalizing the previous year, beginning summer school, meeting with and guiding new staff, and then starting preparations for the next school year.
With fourteen years in the field of education, Mr. Rollinger’s educational background also includes graduating from Harrisburg High School, which makes his perspective of the Harrisburg District very unique. Specifically, he provides insight into Harrisburg High School’s future. For example, he said that the main changes include the opening of the Freshmen Academy on a separate campus and a potential opening of a new high school in five to seven years based on growth.
Lastly, Mr. Rollinger explained his personal feelings and experiences in the position; his favorite part of his job is seeing others succeed. Whether that be “a teacher finding an exciting lesson” or “a student finding their pathway in life.” Conversely, his least favorite is students repeating a mistake rather than learning from it. Overall, Mr. Rollinger enjoys that no day is the same and continues to put the needs of his students and staff first. One thing is certainly clear: students and teachers alike have benefitted from his hard work and passion for education.