Leadership Matters
I’d like to begin by thanking Dr. Kersey for her kind words. It is a pleasure to work with such outstanding people, people who care deeply for students and know the seriousness and importance of our work. Our team is a blessing… and a bit of a curse when it comes time to selecting just one person to honor. We ALL work hard. We are ALL filled with such passion. We ALL add value to AHS. And I am inspired by you ALL and what you offer AHS.
After much thought, however, I decided to gush a bit on the person who helped me most when I transitioned into leadership. When I became a department chair, there was one person I looked to for guidance and encouragement. He was an original Raider who voiced his opinions ardently, stood up for his beliefs, and made us all stop and think about our decisions. All in all, he was kinda like a respectful version of an old-west gun slinger. And he still is.
Since then I have gotten to know Mike Nance even better and always walk away from our conversations feeling honored to work with such an amazing individual. His content knowledge is deep and varied. If you have not been in his room to experience his story telling and masterful questioning techniques, you have missed a good time. When we needed another AP Art History teacher last year, he took on the challenge and taught three different AP courses.
He leads his department with high-expectations and understanding. His feedback is specific and to the point; he expects the best from his teachers and they deliver. For years he has required thoughtful reflection on AP scores and EOC scores. He attends and closely monitors the PLCs in Social Studies especially when there are issues. He amps up “The Silver Fox” the charm in parent meetings and successfully supports his staff while supporting students and parents. His department adores AND respects him.
Lastly, he goes beyond what is necessary. He has been a head coach of a varsity sport almost every year and devotes himself to his players. Last semester he led a RTI English Anchor Time and did everything he could to care for his at-risk students. Over the years he has led many initiatives and represented AHS well at the county, state, and national levels.
Mike Nance, you make me want to be a better educator. Thank you, for all you have done for AHS. You inspire us all!
