After serving three years as high school principal, Michael Oakley will be returning to
the classroom where he will serve as a middle school history teacher.
“Over the past three years, I asked Mr. Oakley to take on a very challenging leadership
role at the high school during a time when significant improvements and changes were
needed,” said Superintendent Brandi Naylor.
“He accepted that challenge willingly and worked extremely hard on behalf of our
students and staff. Change work is never easy, and leading through that type of
transition requires an enormous amount of time, energy, and commitment.”
Naylor expressed her appreciation of Oakley’s efforts as principal.
“The reality is that educator and leadership burnout are very real issues in today’s
schools, especially for individuals working through difficult improvement efforts while
trying to meet the needs of students, staff, families, and the community while balancing
their own family commitments,” she said. “After much consideration and deliberation,
Mr. Oakley has decided that returning to teaching is the best decision for both himself
and his family, and although he will be missed on our administrative team, I fully support
his choice.”
Oakley called his experience as MHS principal meaningful and rewarding and
expressed gratitude for the chance to serve in the leadership role.
“I am grateful for the opportunity to support our students, staff, and community, and I am
especially proud of the work we have accomplished at the high school over the past
three years,” Oakley stated.
Under his leadership, strides were made in improving multiple campus metrics, which
led to measurable gains in student discipline, post-secondary opportunities, English
language proficiency, and attendance. The district has also seen an increase in ACT
scores.
“These improvements reflect the dedication of our staff and students, and I am thankful
to have been part of that progress,” Oakley insisted.
According to Oakley, his request to return to the classroom is rooted in two areas.
“I am increasingly drawn back to the classroom,” he said. “I miss the daily, direct
interaction with students and the opportunity to impact their learning and growth in a
more immediate and personal way. In addition, I am seeking a better work-life balance,
which I believe a return to teaching would provide.”