Celebrating National Principals Month – Greg Miller, Principal of Walt Whitman High School

October is National Principals Month. During this month we recognize the dedicated leaders who guide our schools and support students, staff and families every day. To celebrate, we did a Q&A with a few principals around the county to learn more about what inspires them and the impact their role can play in the community. Each principal answered the same set of questions, giving us a glimpse into their leadership, their passions and even a few fun facts along the way.

How long have you been with MCPS?
12 years

How long have you been the principal at Walt Whitman HS?
I am in my second year as the principal at Whitman. I was fortunate to serve as an assistant principal for four years prior to that. 

What inspires you each day?
The amazing students I get to engage with each and every day. The principalship is a special role in that we get a small glimpse into the future or what the future can be. I am truly fortunate to collaborate with my colleagues in supporting these young innovators who challenge the status quo and push the boundaries of what’s possible. 

What advice would you give to a first-year principal?
Stay true to yourself and the core values that have gotten you to this point. For me, this involved maintaining a steadfast commitment to building healthy and positive relationships with students, staff and parents/caregivers. 

What’s your top win/biggest accomplishment from this past year?
One particularly meaningful milestone last year for me was the enrollment of our inaugural cohort in the Leadership Academy for Social Justice (LASJ), a unique lottery-based special program. This program holds special significance for me because I had the opportunity to work closely with students, staff and the broader Whitman community to develop it. Early on, I served as a teaching administrator by creating and teaching two courses within the program—Introduction to Social Justice and Environmental Justice. It was highly rewarding to see this first group successfully transition to Whitman and begin making meaningful contributions to our school community during my first year as principal.

What job did you want to have when you were a kid?
Like many young children, I initially aspired to become a professional football player. Sports saved my life and provided me opportunities I could never imagine. Through my passion for sports I grew a deeper appreciation and love for learning. As a college student, I initially planned to pursue a career in finance or accounting. But as I delved into history classes during my first years, it renewed my love for storytelling and culture. I shifted my major to history/education my sophomore year. 

What’s an interesting/fun fact that not everyone knows about you? 
I am a self-proclaimed sneakerhead with a LARGE Nike and Jordan collection. My favorite sneakers are Jordan IIIs with over 20 different pairs. 

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What impact do you think principals have on the greater community? 
Outside of being a father to my three toddlers, being a principal is the hardest and most rewarding job I have ever had. I hope my impact is to ultimately shape and serve the greater Whitman community. As the old saying goes, “it takes a village to raise a child,” and I truly believe that our schools and the dedicated people within them are a critical part of this village, tirelessly working to create the conditions where every student can thrive. As principals, we carry the vital responsibility of nurturing a safe and inclusive environment.