Oct. 30, 2020 -- October is National Principals Month, and to celebrate, we're sharing what makes our principals so special. Today, we get to know Mr. Fullerman (Heights High), Mr. Hopkins (Heights High), Dr. Johnston (Monticello Middle School) and Ms. Lackey (Roxboro Middle School).
John Fullerman
Heights High 10th Grade
Where are you from originally, and where did you attend school?
I was born in University Heights. I attended Eastlake North High School, John Carroll University/Cleveland State University and Lakeland Community College.
Where were you working/what were you doing before you became a school principal in CH-UH?
I was working in Canton as a school principal.
What's your favorite thing about the school you lead?
My favorite thing about Heights High is the students. Greeting them as they enter the building, talking to them in the halls and eating lunch with them are some of my favorite parts of the day.
What was your dream job growing up?
I never really had one consistently. It always changed based on that year.
What's your favorite food?
Pad Thai.
Tell us one fun fact about yourself - a talent, hobby, or anything that makes you unique!
I am a pretty good golfer.
Byron Hopkins
Heights High Administrative Principal
Where are you from originally, and where did you attend school?
I am from Cleveland, Ohio. I attended St. Joseph High School. I went to Thiel College for my undergrad degree and Kent State University and Cleveland State for my graduate degrees.
Where were you working/what were you doing before you became a school principal in CH-UH?
I was working for Akron City Schools as the principal of Buchtel CLC High School.
What's your favorite thing about the school you lead?
I love the cultural diversity of the student body at Heights High. I love working with young people, and supporting them in taking advantage of all the opportunities that are available for them.
What was your dream job growing up?
My dream job growing up was to become a engineer.
What's your favorite food?
A good steak.
Tell us one fun fact about yourself - a talent, hobby, or anything that makes you unique!
In college, I was the PAC champion in the 100, 200 and 4 X 100 relay. And, I love to cruise!
Jeff Johnston
Monticello Middle School
Where are you from originally, and where did you attend school?
I grew up in Pittsburgh, PA and moved to the Cleveland area when I was in high school. I graduated from Bay High and attended Youngstown State University for my undergraduate degree. I earned my Master's and Doctoral degree from Arizona State University in Tempe, AZ.
Where were you working/what were you doing before you became a school principal in CH-UH?
Prior to serving as the Principal of Monticello Middle School I served the District as a Coordinator of Student Services and Director of Student Services. Prior to joining the Cleveland Heights - University Heights City School District I served as a Program Manager for Students with Special Needs for the Cleveland Metropolitan School District.
Why do you love being a school principal?
My favorite part of being the Principal of Monticello Middle School is the remarkable group of staff, students and families I get to see and work with each day. Monticello is a special place with a proud past and promising future. I consider myself very lucky to be part of the Monticello family.
What was your dream job growing up?
Like many kids growing up in Pittsburgh my dream was to be the next Terry Bradshaw! That didn't work out but over time I grew to love writing and the field of education. If I wasn't an educator I would be an investigative journalist.
What's your favorite food?
I love bread so most sandwiches, burgers or melts are at the top of the list.
Tell us one fun fact about yourself - a talent, hobby, or anything that makes you unique!
I love spending time outdoors and enjoy exercising and hiking throughout Northeast Ohio.
Denise Lackey
Roxboro Middle School
Where are you from originally, and where did you attend school?
I was born in Camden, Arkansas. I attended Shaker Heights High School, Cleveland State University, Ohio State University, and the University of Chicago - Concordia.
Where were you working/what were you doing before you became a school principal in CH-UH?
I was working in Columbus, Ohio.
Why do you love being a school principal?
The district has always had a reputation of quality. When I applied, I was so excited to be apart of a community of diversity. I became a member of the "family."
What was your dream job growing up?
Never thought about a dream job. I was always told that I had a 'niche' for working with children and getting them to follow my directives!
What's your favorite food?
Good fried chicken.
Tell us one fun fact about yourself - a talent, hobby, or anything that makes you unique!
I was told to audition for a singing role by someone who is now famous but I chose instead to be behind the scenes (never regretted the decision).