The 8th annual Principal For a Day event was held on November 10^th, 2009. This exciting day of partnership between the business community and the Philadelphia School District was a rousing success. Co-chairs Mayor Michael A. Nutter, School District of Philadelphia Superintendent Arlene Ackerman, and Merrill Lynch Managing Director Robert Bowman were all actively involved in the event, and it was a terrific day for all concerned.

Principal for a Day, generously sponsored by Merrill Lynch Wealth Management, is a powerful catalyst for community involvement and ongoing relationships with the Philadelphia public schools. Local corporate, civic and creative leaders experience a day in the life of a Philadelphia public school principal. Hundreds of business executives in our community have participated in this wonderful event over the past few years and many exciting partnerships have resulted.

What is it that makes Principal For a Day so important to the young people of Philadelphia? It inspires ongoing relationships between Philadelphia companies, their leaders, school administration and, most importantly, the students themselves. “Education is the heart and soul of any successful enterprise,” said Frankie Lancos, Interim Executive Director of Greater Philadelphia Cares. “Through this event, students see firsthand where education will take them, and what they can achieve”. The entire day is a celebration of partnerships and education, as after a morning spent speaking with students at locations throughout the school district the principals – both temporary and permanent! – are honored at a luncheon at the Loew’s Hotel in Philadelphia.

Partnerships between private enterprise and public education are crucial. The sharing of ideas and resources is a keystone of education, and what we do with Principal for a Day is to encourage this sharing not only on this one day, but all through the year. Luncheon emcee Sue Serio of Fox 29 agrees. “I’m so happy to be a part of this day,” said Ms. Serio. “Those who have been a part of Principal For a Day, as we at Fox 29 have, know that the volunteers don’t just spend one day at the school. This experience creates relationships that last.”

The Principal For a Day event for 2010 will be held on November 9th. Check back for details on participating!