Article by: Kendall Gouaux
For 23 years, West Orange-Stark High School Principal Brodrick McGrew has dedicated his career to making a positive difference in students' lives. Along the way, he has learned that education is about more than teaching lessons and meeting academic goals; it is about building relationships, inspiring students, and ensuring every child has the opportunity to succeed.
Norris McDaniel, his grade school principal, inspired his desire to become a principal. McDaniel's influence left a lasting impression and helped shape McGrew’s vision of the kind of leader he wanted to become. His example inspired McGrew to pursue a position where he could transform students' lives and make a difference for teachers, families, and the community alike.
He believes every student has the potential to learn and grow, but challenges and unmet needs can make learning difficult. He often compares this problem to a leaking cup. “My favorite aspects about the job are transforming my students’ lives and plugging up the holes in their cup. Mistakes happen, just like with anyone else, but what matters most is being willing to learn, grow, and always strive to do what is best for the children.” Before knowledge, encouragement, and support can be poured into that cup, those holes must first be patched. When students feel supported, valued, and cared for, they are better prepared to receive, understand, and retain the knowledge being shared with them.
As a principal, he understands that leadership is not about being perfect, and his commitment to students is genuine. Every decision is guided by the belief that children deserve the very best that can be given to them. McGrew reflected, "Our message is simple: we love our students, and we teach them. Love and learning go hand in hand. Students who feel supported and believed in recognize their potential and work to achieve their goals."
As he continues his journey in education, he remains committed to creating an environment where every student feels seen, heard, supported, and challenged to become the best version of themselves. Being a principal is more than just a title— it is an opportunity to serve, inspire, and transform lives. After 23 years in education, that purpose still drives Principal McGrew every day. “I just want the community to know that I'm not perfect and I do make mistakes. But I will always do what's best and what's right for their kids. We are going to love & teach them!”
