To the Editor:

As a 20+ year Princeton resident and proud parent of a recent PHS graduate, I write today to express my heartfelt hope that the search committee for our high school’s new principal will be driven by a strong commitment to inclusive education [“PHS Seeks New PHS Principal by Aug. 31,” page 1, July 12]. This hiring decision presents us with an opportunity to reaffirm our dedication to the values that support our public education system’s excellence.

Our public schools need to serve everyone in our community. The needs of historically disadvantaged and disenfranchised students are critical and deserve careful consideration in this process.

We must prioritize the needs of first-generation students, those whose first language is not English and those whose parents did not attend college in the U.S. These students bring unique perspectives and experiences to our classrooms, and it is our duty to provide them with the support and resources necessary to succeed academically and beyond. We need a principal who understands the challenges faced by these students and their families.

Additionally, we must ensure that students with disabilities have equal access to education and are embraced by the school community. Our new principal should be someone who actively promotes a welcoming and inclusive environment, ensuring that all students’ needs are met and that equitable learning experiences are provided to all.

LGBTQ+ students, too, deserve to feel safe and accepted within the school community. The search committee must prioritize finding a leader who will champion policies and initiatives that foster inclusivity, respect, and understanding for all students, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender expression.

Finally, it is of the utmost importance that we proactively address the disparities faced by Black and Brown students. Our community is strengthened when all students have an equitable chance to thrive. Our new principal must be committed to implementing explicitly anti-racist practices, embracing diversity, and dismantling systemic barriers that continue to hinder the success of these students.

By acknowledging and seeking to address the needs of ALL of our students, our public schools not only empower them to reach their full potential, but we also enrich the entire educational experience for every student. When everyone feels valued and included, a positive ripple effect permeates the entire school community, fostering empathy, compassion, a critical feeling of belonging, and academic excellence.

By selecting a leader who prioritizes inclusivity, embraces diversity, and leads the work of proactively addressing disparities, we can not only create a sense of belonging, but also a brighter future for every member of our community. Let us seize this moment to set a powerful example and reinforce our dedication to an inclusive, equitable, and excellent public high school education in Princeton.

Shelley Krause
Western Way