Dr. Michael Shepherd was announced to be the Virco National Assistant Principal of the Year Feb. 28 at the National Association of Secondary School Principal conference, in San Francisco. At the conference, Dr. Shepherd was first honored for being the Assistant Principal of the Year for Arkansas, along with 49 other assistant principals from each state.
“It was a great honor to represent Har-Ber on a national level,” said Dr. Shepherd.
Following this competition, the state winners were narrowed down to Dr. Shepherd and two other principals. The three of them then spoke and gave a presentation to a panel of judges, who made the final decision.
“The interview process was high pressure,” said Dr. Shepherd, “But after that it was okay.”
All around Har-Ber, many of the teachers and fellow administrators he works with were overjoyed to hear about his award and for the great honor it is for the school as a whole.
“There were about 15 people there waiting for me at the airport with signs,” said Dr. Shepherd, “It was an awesome experience.”
Mrs. Sandra McMurtrey, Dr. Shepherd’s secretary said, “It’s just awesome that he won. He’s an outstanding assistant principal.”
Dr. Shepard also works closely with Assistant Principal Shannon Tisher.
“When I found out I literally had tears in my eyes because I was so happy for him. I don’t think people understand what an honor it is to be named National Assistant Principal of the Year,” she said. “I’m so happy for him because I know how much he loves his job and how hard he works. I don’t think there’s anyone more deserving than him.”
Mr. John Stewart also agrees that Dr. Shepherd is well-deserving of the award. He voiced his appreciation of Dr. Shepherd’s support in advocating the history department and helping out AP teachers. He also made some comments on Dr.Shepards personality.
“He has a very common sense approach as far as the way he does things, which is very important in his line of work,” he said. “I’ve also heard he’s a pretty good dancer and does a mean electric slide!”
