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A Quick Note to Listeners:
Before this week’s interview, Will Parker answers a question from a student in Jen Schwanke’s graduate class at OSU.
The question is: How did you ensure equity and fairness in staff evaluations, promotions, and leadership opportunities? (Question from Diona Ross, High School Intervention Specialist from Columbus, Ohio)
Listen in to hear his response and thank you for doing what matters!
Meet Dr. Tracie Anderson Swilley:
Dr. Tracie Anderson Swilley, principal of Fairfield Central High School, in Winnsboro, South Carolina, was named the 2025 National Principal of the Year, a testament to her 12 years of inspiring leadership. Originally a biology major, she discovered her passion for education through mathematics and began her journey as a high school math teacher before becoming dean of students, assistant principal of curriculum and instruction, and a principal.
Under her leadership, Fairfield Central has achieved remarkable student success despite economic challenges. Dr. Swilley credits her team and students for their resilience, emphasizing that circumstances do not define potential. Known for her unwavering belief in her staff and students, she continues to shape a culture of growth, confidence, and achievement. Something the audience may be surprised to know about Dr. Swilley is that she has the opportunity to be the dean of students and assistant principal at the school she graduated from. She actually ended up being the supervisor to people who taught her!
The How and Why of Getting Into Education:
Tracie Swilley graciously shares her story with me and the rest of Principal Matters listeners. Growing up, Tracie says that she always knew she wanted to work with children and young people. The impetus that propelled her into a career in education was an interaction with a college professor who helped Tracie understand the “why” of mathematics. This interaction made Tracie realize that she wanted to teach other people what she had learned about math. Additionally, Dr. Swilley says that her passion comes from lived experience, having grown up in a community that is economically challenged.
Next, Tracie shares some of the outcomes she is most proud of at Fairfield Central High School. Her favorite day of every year is graduation. At Fairfield Central High School, the graduation rate is 91 and their school report card is exceeding state standards. Dr. Swilley and her staff are dedicated to making sure that students are able to graduate within 4 years, and that they are leaving high school with enough credentials to go into the workforce. Furthermore, Dr. Swilley discusses why she feels it is so important for her to stay in her position at Fairfield Central High School for so long. It’s about showing students that they are important enough for someone to stick around.
Lessons from Leadership Experience:
As Dr. Swilley considers what she wants to share with listeners regarding lessons in leadership that can be gained from her experience, she says she first wants to focus on what she did wrong. Tracie says that when she first stepped into a leadership role, she thought she had to be a superwoman and get everything done herself. This mindset led to her becoming a workaholic. Dr. Swilley also shares that something that helps leaders get out of the workaholic mindset is connecting with other leaders. Learning how to build the right team for your school is another skill that Tracie suggests new leaders acquire. Finally, Dr. Swilley reminds listeners to stay true to themselves. She spent a long time trying to be like other people, and has found the most success as herself.
Lessons for New Leaders:
Dr. Swilley tells me that if she could talk to a new or aspiring leader, she would offer the following advice:
- There should be nothing you’re not willing to assist or do
- You can’t prepare for the principalship before you’re in the principalship
- Be at events so that you understand the hours that go in to the job
- You do not have to be an expert but you should know who to go to to find out the information you need when you have questions
Advice for Veteran Leaders:
At the end of our conversation, Tracie reflects on what keeps her motivated in her work for the long haul. She does not deny that leadership can be an extremely difficult job, and it can be hard to stay motivated. By surrounding herself with younger leaders, Dr. Swilley is able to stay motivated. Kids also help her get her motivation back. She recommends befriending an elementary school principal to learn the innovative ways they are working with kids. Tricks that work for elementary school students work for high school students too, and seeing a student light up will help bring back motivation. To wrap up the conversation, Dr. Swilly tells Principal Matters listeners “Be the best version of you every day”.
Staying Connected:
You can find out more about Dr. Tracie Swilley via:
- X: @principaltswill
- Her website
