By Leah Yanuszeski, Review Intern
Sophia Lafayette’s goal for her first day at Lake Orion High School: Visit every classroom and introduce herself.
The new principal, who arrived Wednesday, Feb. 17, says she accomplished the task, save a few dark rooms. Even the Lake Orion band welcomed her with a taste of Dragon Pride outside her office.
‘This is a great place, everyone is passionate about their community and school, Lafayette said. ‘The school here is another extension of family. Lake Orion is the place to be.?
Looking to the future, Lafayette says she’s most excited about graduation, come June.
‘I am proud of the students already, and excited to share the experience with them,? she said. ‘When you bring a large group of people together, excited about one thing, it’s inspiring.?
Lafayette says she’s ready to embrace the student body — all 2,600 of them — and their individuality.
Her leadership at the high school will be influenced by previous teachers of her own who showed a unique interest in her, she noted.
‘I remember the people who cared about me, not my assignments,? Lafayette said.
Creating a school where every student is appreciated for who they are is the new principal’s goal.
To that end, she hopes for unwavering support in her new students and a partnership with them in creating a positive educational atmosphere.
After all, Layfette said, it is the students of LO who she, and all school officials, are serving.