Enka Middle School principal Leland Blankenship has been named the BCS 2018 Principal of the Year, but he says the school's teachers and staff share the credit.
“I feel like it needs to be considered a team award,” he said. “Our teachers are extremely talented and dedicated. It’s a good feeling that people realize how hard we’re working here. It’s heartwarming and touching.”
Blankenship, now in his fifth year as principal, says his interest in education began when he was very young.
“My mother was a teacher for 43 years, and I’ve had many great educators in my life,” he said. “I think the majority of people who go into teaching had great teachers when they were kids.”
As principal, Blankenship wears many hats – from traffic director to custodian.
“A lot of times, what administrators do is solve problems, look for solutions, and lead by example,” he said. “If I see trash on the ground, I’ll pick it up, and I hope students and teachers do the same.”
Enka Middle School students have opportunities to succeed because of their dedicated teachers, Blankenship added.
“We are only successful if our students are successful,” he said. “If we see students doing their best and reaching their potential, we know we’re doing a good job. I really feel like we are on the right path at Enka Middle School, so I do appreciate the acknowledgement for that.”