Catching Up with Superintendent Piper Bognar of Van Dyke Public Schools in Michigan!

Q: What inspired you to pursue a career in education leadership?

A: I wanted to do whatever I could to make a large impact. Working with students is always the most motivating part of my career. When I can listen for their ideas and needs; work with others; and make the largest impact possible that is what makes me feel like I’m making a real difference. Garnering the support of colleagues to improve school communities is what it’s all about.

Q: If you could describe your leadership style in three words, what would they be and why?

A: 1. Focused—If we stay focused on our students and their success & opportunities regardless of factors outside of the school day, they will thrive. 

2. Big picture—Every person and element of the school community should be considered when leading. Our students are number one, and thinking about how everything else fits to support them helps them stay number one. 
3. Compassionate—If you lead knowing that everyone is unique and that you never know anyone’s whole story, you will become more thoughtful in making decisions, reflecting, and revising plans.  

Q: What accomplishment are you most proud of during your tenure as a superintendent?

A: I’m proud of our leadership team and the many leaders in every space around our district. Growing and maintaining such a strong, consistent team takes daily work; we’ve been going through this process for multiple years. It didn’t happen overnight, but looking at our community now compared to ten years ago, you’ll see multiple changes.  

Q: What's the most unusual or memorable school event you've attended during your career?

A: The most memorable was just over a month ago when our Boys’ Varsity Basketball team became State Champs.  This was a first in history for Van Dyke Public Schools, and seeing the community come together to support these students was just phenomenal.  We had hundreds of parents, students, staff, and alumni at the games and even picked up new fans from around the state.  We received unsolicited compliments about our team’s sportsmanship and the behavior of our crowds overall.  The celebrations brought out even more people and showed our true Van Dyke Pride.   Everyone feels like a champ right now.

Q: Share a quirky or surprising fact about yourself that most people wouldn't guess.

A: I was once in a short film where my husband played my murderer.  It won an independent film contest through iCast in the early 2000s.

Q: Outside of work, what hobbies or activities do you enjoy that rejuvenate you for the demands of your role?

A: Rest is easier said than done, but you’ll suffer if you don’t take the time.  Being around family and friends is rejuvenating- just laughing with loved ones. Sometimes, you need to read a book that has nothing to do with your career or have a quiet weekend somewhere “up north,” as Michiganders call it.  Doing something physical helps the stress; boxing is always great, and biking can clear your head.

Q: How has IEI helped you on your leadership journey?

A: IEI takes the needs of district leaders seriously and connects us with colleagues who push us to grow more. We can collaborate with like-minded learners and leaders outside our usual organizations. The ideas and strategies I’ve developed within two years are beyond what I would get by attending piecemeal professional learning sessions.  The group is also like another family that I can count on day-to-day.

Q: If you could have dinner with any historical figure, who would it be and why?

A: I have to say, at this point in time, I’d probably choose Susan B Anthony or another women’s suffrage movement leader.  I’d want to know the most challenging or frightening part of her activism and what she did to help overcome her fears.  I’d also share how far we’ve come in some areas.  Then I’d ask her to come to speak to my Young Women in Leadership group!