Oct. 27, 2020 -- October is National Principals Month, and to celebrate, we're sharing what makes our principals so special. Today, we get to know Ms. Coleman (Roxboro Middle School), Ms. Pronty (Monticello Middle School), and Dr. Wigton (Canterbury Elementary School).
Rachael Coleman
Roxboro Middle School
Where are you from originally, and where did you attend school?
I'm from Cleveland, Ohio. I attended Cleveland School of the Performing Arts for grades 4-12, Hampton University for undergrad, John Carroll University for my Master's Degree, Cleveland State University for First Ring Leadership Academy, and Ashland University for my Superintendent's Licensure.
Where were you working/what were you doing before you became a school principal in CH-UH?
After earning my Master's Degree from JCU, I taught at Monticello for 10 years as a 7th grade English teacher. I was hired as the assistant principal and then principal at Garfield Middle School for 2 years, and then became the principal at Noble Elementary School in CH-UH for 8 years, before serving the district as a middle school principal.
Why do you love being a school principal?
I love that every day is different. You never know who you are going to help or how you are going to do it, but every day in CH-UH brings an opportunity to serve someone.
What was your dream job growing up?
A lawyer.
What's your favorite food?
Pizza, especially the crust.
Tell us one fun fact about yourself - a talent, hobby, or anything that makes you unique!
I love cooking and I am a kitchen / cooking gadget fanatic.
Brigitte Pronty
Monticello Middle School
Where are you from originally, and where did you attend school?
I’m from Solon, Ohio. I attended Solon High School, received my B.S. from University of Akron and my Master’s Degree from Ashland University.
Where were you working/what were you doing before you became a school principal in CH-UH?
I was an Assistant Principal (K-8) for 3 years and a Principal (K-8) for 5 years in CMSD. I also taught grades 2-4 at Coventry.
Why do you love being a school principal?
Interacting with students/families and being a role model. When a student comes back to visit our school or stops in the office to visit me, I know that I have been able to touch a life.
What was your dream job growing up?
A professional dancer.
What's your favorite food?
My mom's macaroni and cheese.
Tell us one fun fact about yourself - a talent, hobby, or anything that makes you unique!
I hiked Camelback Mountain in Phoenix, Arizona.
Erica Wigton
Canterbury Elementary
Where are you from originally, and where did you attend school?
I went to Laurel School in Shaker Heights for high school. I was a Political Science major at Gettysburg College in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania where I also played lacrosse. I received my Principal Certification from John Carroll University and PhD in Urban Education from Cleveland State. I am currently an adjunct professor at Notre Dame College.
Where were you working/what were you doing before you became a school principal in CH-UH?
I was the Assistant Principal at Woodbury School in Shaker Heights.
What's your favorite thing about the school you lead?
My favorite thing about Canterbury is supporting our smart students, superb staff and spectacular community.
What was your dream job growing up?
Astronaut.
What's your favorite food?
My husband is Cuban and I love Cuban food.
Tell us one fun fact about yourself - a talent, hobby, or anything that makes you unique!
I have been playing piano since I was four, and my twin boys have the same piano teacher I had growing up.