Pathways Learning Academy is excited to welcome our new leader, Head Principal Stephanie Gragg!
As we begin a new school year, we look forward to the leadership, ideas, and enthusiasm she brings to our school community. Under Principal Gragg’s leadership, we are excited to continue building a positive and supportive environment while developing successful strategies that help every student learn, grow, and achieve their goals.
We believe great schools are built through strong relationships, teamwork, and a shared commitment to student success, and we are excited for what the year ahead will bring!
Of course, before we get started, we want our students, families, staff, and community to have the opportunity to get to know the person behind the title. We asked Principal Gragg a few fun and meaningful questions so everyone can learn a little more about our new leader!
Tell us a little about yourself and your background in education.
I started as a drama teacher in Oklahoma City, and then I found my place at Midwest City High School. I taught and was an Instructional Coach there. I moved to Shawnee for the last five years to be an assistant principal, and now I am back in Mid-Del. I am so excited to be back!
What inspired you to become an educator?
I decided to become a teacher after visiting my mom in her classroom at an Alternative School. I saw the work she was able to do, and I wanted to be a part of it.
What made you want to become a principal?
I wanted to help students. I started an Intervention Team at MCHS where we helped students who were unsuccessful and just needed extra support. I wanted to be able to help more students succeed.
What are you most excited about as you begin this new school year with us?
I am most excited to partner with the community to help students, and I am excited to help our teachers have all that they need to be successful, too.
What is one thing you hope students and families quickly learn about you?
I am on your team, and so are the faculty and staff here.
What is most important to you when creating a positive school culture?
Working as a team and building relationships.
What do you want every student to feel when they walk through our doors?
I want them to feel like they belong and that the adults in this building care about their success.
How would you describe your leadership style?
I would describe it as authentic leadership. I am all about being real, leading with honesty, and building genuine trust with your team.
What is one goal you have for our school this year?
I want to see all of our seniors graduate.
What does student success look like to you?
I want them to learn to be good community members, be prepared for their post-secondary life, and graduate.
How do you hope to support teachers and staff?
I hope to ensure that they have all the supports that they need.
What role do you believe families and the community play in student success?
The families and our community are all part of our team to ensure success for the students. I am very communicative with parents and families so that we can all work together for student success. If you have any community members who would like to partner with us, please reach out!
What is one message you would like every student at our school to hear from you?
I want them to know that they matter and that their future is important.