“I am a student of life, and I look forward to new challenges daily.”
This is what Sue Soler had to say about working in education. Soler, the Principal of Central Elementary School in Portage, has been in the education field for more than 12 years. She started as a classroom teacher but slowly transitioned into administrative roles.
“I began to realize how much I love working alongside teachers,” Soler said. “I wanted to support them in any area that I was able to.”
Soler recalls that she decided her career choice as young as age 8, when she was inspired by her third grade teacher. The teacher’s dedication to teaching and love for her students left a lasting impression on her.
“Teaching in the classroom is something I have wanted to do since I was young, so when I moved into a position in administration it was really exciting for me to see the role of teacher from a different perspective,” Soler said.
Soler also explained some of the challenges she faces in her position. While the students’ academic success is always a priority, she and the rest of the Central faculty and staff tend to the general well-being of the students as well during their elementary school journey.
“Nurturing the students is so important to us,” Soler said. “We want students to feel that they matter and that they are loved. We strive to truly take care of their needs and wants, ensuring that they want to be here to learn while feeling comfortable as well.”
Soler firmly believes forging and building upon healthy relationships with students and faculty is the key to a successful academic ecosystem.
“I’ve embraced this school. The teachers are outstanding, dedicated, and love working with the students. I feel humbled to be able to stand in front of the staff that I have been blessed to lead. It’s something that I don’t take for granted.”
Despite how far she has come, Soler still believes there is much to learn. Every day breeds new challenges, but also new opportunities for development and overall growth.
“This has been a growing experience for me. This position has tested me in ways I wouldn’t have thought possible, and in hindsight it has given me a new outlook on leadership.”
“I’ve learned a lot, and I feel I learn something new every day. I embrace challenges because at the end of the day it makes us stronger. And the reason for all of this is to make a difference in the lives of our students.”