Swilley has implemented several programs to involve students in the school’s improvement and to help them envision a successful future for themselves. One such program is the Career Exploration Fair, where professionals from various fields come to the school to talk about their jobs and the pathways they took to get there. Swilley also created a student advisory council, giving students a voice in decisions that affect their education and school environment.
“I want my students to see that there are endless possibilities for them, and that they have the power to shape their future,” Swilley said.
Swilley’s dedication to her students and her innovative strategies have not gone unnoticed. She was nominated by her peers for the National Principal of the Year award, and her success in improving test scores and graduation rates at Fairfield Central has made her a respected leader in the education community.
“I am honored to receive this award, but the real reward is seeing my students thrive and succeed,” Swilley said. “They are the reason I do what I do every day.”
Fairfield Central High School in South Carolina is making waves in the education world with its innovative approach to preparing students for college and beyond. Principal Akil Ross Swilley has taken the traditional STEM college academy at the school to the next level by adding an arts element to it. This new academy allows students to earn an associate’s degree while still in high school, giving them a head start on their higher education journey.
Swilley is dedicated to ensuring that all students at Fairfield Central are aware of the opportunities that await them in college. To achieve this, she has made it a point for all teachers to display the colleges they attended on their nameplates. This simple yet effective strategy helps students see the diverse paths that lead to success and encourages them to aim high. As a result, last year, 80 percent of Fairfield Central graduates were accepted into four- or two-year colleges.
However, changing the school culture hasn’t been without its challenges. Swilley quickly realized that involving students in discussions about behavior and expectations was crucial to creating a positive learning environment. Initially, she implemented strict rules on dress codes and other issues without considering student input. But after listening to their opinions, she realized the importance of including students in the decision-making process. By gaining their buy-in, Swilley was able to set clear expectations around academic achievement and foster a sense of ownership among the student body.
In addition to empowering students, Swilley is also focused on developing a diverse group of leaders within her school. As a mentor to new principals through the South Carolina Association of School Administrators, she shares her expertise and experiences to help them navigate the challenges of school leadership. Swilley believes in learning from her mentees as well, recognizing the value of their fresh perspectives and innovative ideas.
Within Fairfield Central, Swilley is proactive in grooming future leaders by pairing assistant principals and teachers with the school’s testing coordinator. This hands-on experience in planning and implementing tests prepares them for leadership roles in the future. Swilley is also a strong advocate for increasing the recruitment of women of color to the principalship, using her platform as National Principal of the Year to raise awareness of the obstacles they face. She believes in the importance of diversity in leadership and is committed to empowering women of color to excel in educational leadership roles.
In conclusion, Principal Akil Ross Swilley’s commitment to student success, teacher leadership, and diversity is transforming Fairfield Central High School into a hub of innovation and excellence. By integrating arts into the STEM college academy, involving students in decision-making, and mentoring future leaders, Swilley is shaping a brighter future for the school and its community.
