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Principal for a Day Welcomes a Record Crowd
PENCIL’s annual Principal for a Day hit record participation in 2025, as 178 community members visited MNPS schools to experience a day in the life of a Metro Schools principal!
With their hosts, participants met students and staff, visited classrooms, and more, and left with a better understanding of what happens in our schools every day. This year’s activities took place on October 30th, and many students, educators, and even some guest principals were in full costume, embracing the Halloween spirit!
The spooky theme carried over to the beautiful Massey Hall at Cheekwood, where all gathered for lunch and the program. Guests were welcomed on-site by a thrilling performance from dance students at Lawson and Cane Ridge high schools – set perfectly to Michael Jackson’s “Thriller” – putting smiles on the faces of every visitor.
During the luncheon, guests heard from Nathalie Lavine, VP of Education and Outreach at Cheekwood; Courtney Ross, Senior Manager of Community Engagement at Amazon; and PENCIL President & CEO Christiane Buggs, who made the ask of guest principals: “Please remember PENCIL when you, your friends, or co-workers are looking for ways to pour into our students and educators. We are the soft landing spot for any adult ready to share their time, talent, or treasure with Metro Schools.”
Dr. Adrienne Battle, Director of Schools, celebrated the hard work and wonderful achievements of our principals over the past year, sharing her appreciation for all involved, before leading a Q-and-A session with new MNPS principals.
PENCIL is grateful for the support of our presenting sponsor Amazon, as well as support from Cheekwood Estate & Gardens, Southwest Airlines, Ryman Hospitality Properties, and Metro Nashville Public Schools.
