Grading papers, maintaining a quiet classroom, and instilling an education in the minds of students never used to be in the job description of Principal Paul Freeman. But as Freeman has taken on yet another role at GSHS, faculty and students all have something to say.

     Teaching has always been a part of Freeman's past. The GSHS principal of four years graduated from London University in 1977 with a history major. From there he went on to teach at Cardinal Hinsley High School in North London. He taught for 20 years before beginning his work as an administrator.

     Freeman pointed out that the role of a principal in the UK is drastically different from what we consider to be a “principal” in America. “The word 'principal' is actually an abbreviation for principal-teacher, meaning the head or top teacher.” Freeman explained, “In the UK a principal typically comes into power because of his or her work in the classroom.”

     After being out of the classroom for 11 years, people at GSHS have begun to wonder why Freeman has decided to take it up once again. During an interaction in the GSHS office, Scott Loeffler, Carrie Melby, and John Scarlet discussed what they believe are his true intentions. “He knew that we were short of teachers so I believe he decided to step up to the plate and offer help,” said Scarlet with Melby in agreement. “I totally disagree,” added Loeffler. “He is the leader of the teachers and he wanted to make sure that what he tells them to do, he can actually do himself.”

     Freeman's decision was based on a mix of the above, but more focused on the students than on anything else. “Student learning is an essential thing that happens in our school,” Freeman said. “I am simply facilitating students by reducing class sizes and giving them a better atmosphere to learn in.”

     Although it puts a lot of pressure on our principal, and he now has even less time to accomplish his primary job, the students really seem to be enjoying his class. Logan Holmberg, a freshman at GSHS, describes his experiences: “I consider his class to be on of the hardest, yet most fun classes I'm taking. He isn't boring and he jumped right into the subject matter on the first day.” Logan also explained that having a principal teach the class means there is a lot more respect shown to Mr. Freeman and they were able to get through a lot more material.     

     As Freeman continues to run around like a chicken with his head cut off, it is good to see that our principal genuinely cares about student education. But still, none of us will ever get over the fact that he is from the UK, but has decided to teach American History.