Written by Amity Batt
Instead of sitting behind his desk, Principal Bob Setser spends his days out in the halls greeting students. His presence shows students he is more than just a principal. He is someone who cares about them as people, not just students.
This school year is his first as the principal of SHS and he’s doing a great job. He comes to all of the events that he can, even joking around about how getting in for free is his favorite part. He makes all students feel welcome and safe at school, making sure it’s an excellent environment to be in.
“Having a positive principal makes my days better because it makes interactions feel friendlier instead of feeling tense,” said sophomore Alexis Reardon.
Junior Bailey Smith, who transferred this year from another school, agreed.
“Mr. Setser has been very welcoming and helpful if I had any questions, and always asked me if I was doing okay my first few days of school,” she said.
Setser is a big inspiration to be a better person for many students and staff in SHS. He’s always smiling and waving hands. When asked what he hopes students remember about him after graduation he replied, “That I was personable and they knew they could talk to me. That I was understanding.
“When I was first teaching at Salem, I did algebra I and I thought I had a big influence on that group of students so I wanted to see how big of an impact I could make on a whole school.”
Setser enjoyed being a part of both schools, stating that one's not easier than the other.
“Both have advantages: in high school we can have more adult conversations and the students are more cooperative,” he said. “In high school it's more real life so if they don’t do well they have to retake the classes. It makes students try harder. Understanding the complexity of how high school works and operates. Allowing time to try to attend all of the events and be visible in the hallways. Being visible is very important but there weren't as many extra curricular events to attend in elementary.”.
With only one nine weeks left of his first year as a principal, his impact is continuing to grow. By being present in the halls, classroom and at school events, he’s building connections beyond his office. His leadership will continue to shape SHS into the positive place it is.