Welcome to The Principal’s Office! Every other week, we feature a Q&A with a principal from schools across the archdiocese. This week, meet Heather Stessman, principal at Corpus Christi School in Lawrence.
Q: How long have you been principal at your school?
This is my third year at Corpus and I was principal at St. Matthew’s [in Topeka] for nine years.
Q: What made you want to lead a Catholic school specifically?
I was a public school teacher, and then I went to St. Matthew, and then I went back to public school for a few years. I just really missed having my heart and my head in the same place. While I loved my jobs at public school, being able to express my faith, live my faith and hopefully pass it on to people was just really a tug at my heart.
Q: What’s one thing happening at your school right now that people outside of the building or community may not know about?
Our staff is starting to look at a book called “Belonging Through a Culture of Dignity.” We just started a process of professional development that is based on culturally-responsive teaching. At its core, it is seeing the God-given dignity of every person and helping all people — the kids and the adults in our community, our school — to feel seen and known by us and to remind them that they’re loved by God.
Q: Tell me about a moment that reminded you why you do this job.
This is completely God working among us: We have had four faculty members and a spouse come into the church or join OCIA since I’ve been back at Corpus. I’m just so happy about that.
Q: What’s something your school does that you’re proud of?
I’m really proud that we walk the talk of being a family centered environment. We truly work to collaborate with families on what’s best for kids academically, emotionally, but most of all in their faith journey.
Q: If a student had to describe you in one word, what would it be — and would you agree?
Friendly. I would agree with them most of the time! I have my moments [laughs]. I try to be out in the rotunda in the morning and greeting kids with a smile and their names as much as I can. I’m still learning names. I think it’s important. It really helps people to feel seen when you know their name.
Q: Outside of school, what’s something people would be surprised to learn about you?
I love to dance. I was a dancer in college. Actually, Jenny Yankovich, the principal at St. Paul [in Olathe], and I were on the dance team together at Washburn!
Q: What’s one word or phrase you find yourself saying to students or staff all the time?
Tuck in that shirt for me, please!
Q: Vacation in the mountains or at the beach?
Beach!
