The extraordinary work inside public schools—from innovative teaching to remarkable student achievement—often goes unseen by those outside the classroom. To highlight that work, Carrollton-Farmers Branch ISD hosted its first-ever Principal for a Day (PFAD) event, inviting community members, business leaders, and parents to step into the shoes of school leaders and experience the daily rhythm of campus life firsthand.

Participants joined their assigned schools for a morning of activities, from morning announcements and classroom visits to conversations with students and staff. By taking part in these activities, participants gained a closer look at the leadership and learning taking place across CFBISD campuses.

Grounded in the belief that education is a shared community responsibility, the PFAD initiative aims to build and strengthen partnerships between local leaders and the educational community, supporting the district’s mission of preparing students for the future. The experience also gave campus principals a rare opportunity to step outside their daily routines and view their schools through a new lens.

“As a mom and a working parent, our teachers and staff are always on my mind,” said Swapna Mandava, PFAD at La Villita Elementary. “It was great to see them in action. They put so much time and effort into our kids every day.”

Following the morning shadowing sessions, honorary principals gathered for a luncheon to share their reflections.

“There was heart behind everything I witnessed today,” said Mary Lovell, chairman of the CFBISD Educational Foundation. “Our teachers and administrators care for our kids, their parents, and their communities.”

“Today gave me hope in the education system,” added Everett Eads, Texas Senate Deputy District Director. “These kids—they’re going places.”

Superintendent Dr. Wendy Eldredge, who also visited several campuses throughout the day, thanked the honorary principals and asked them to brag about the great things happening at CFBISD.

“The success of our students is strongly influenced by the strength of our partnerships,” Dr. Eldredge said. “Seeing so many dedicated leaders devote their time to our campuses is a powerful testament to the support of our CFB community. They can now go out and share the incredible work our teachers and principals do every day.”

The event, sponsored by Children’s Health and the Metrocrest Chamber of Commerce, concluded with a call to action from Cristal Retana, vice president of community relations at Children’s Health, who spent her morning as PFAD at R.L. Turner High School.

“It’s time for us to come together as a community and support our school district,” Retana Lule said. “Our teachers are educating the future leaders and workforce, and we must look for opportunities to partner with CFBISD.”

CFBISD extends its gratitude to all Principal for a Day volunteers who are making a difference in the lives of students and staff. The district looks forward to building on this initiative to further strengthen its schools and communities.