K-12 Principal Certification Graduate Appointed Assistant Principal for Spring Cove School District

Meet Marissa Cerully

Job Title & Employer: Assistant Principal, Central High School, Spring Cove School District
Major/Program: School Principal Certification
Graduation: April 2018
Hometown: Harleysville, Pa.
High School: Souderton Area High School
Now Living In: Duncansville, Pa.
Hobbies & Interests: Bible study, children’s ministry, exercise, decorating, reading and spending precious time with family and friends

"Marissa demonstrated both confidence and competence. She had clearly researched facts about our school, and she really impressed me with her explanation of what she could offer our school in terms of her skills, enthusiasm and genuine care for students. Marissa 'hit the ground running' when she joined our team. Clearly, she learned the core competencies needed to be an effective administrator from her program of study at Point Park University."

Stephanie L. Thompson, M.Ed., principal, Central High School

"After my positive experience completing the K-12 principal certification program, I am now considering Point Park University’s Ed.D. program in leadership and administration. I recommend Point Park University to any educator who is looking to pursue professional learning."

Marissa Cerully

How did earning a K-12 principal certification from Point Park University help you become an assistant principal?

Point Park University’s K-12 principal certification program provided me with the knowledge and skills to obtain the role of assistant principal. Throughout the program, there was an emphasis on transformational leadership and on the principal’s role as an instructional leader.

Congruently, the course work was rigorous and aligned with standards-based systems theory and design. The professors were very helpful, supportive and well informed about the challenges facing school districts today. I received a high level of support throughout the program, which included extensive field-based work with well-guided practicum requirements.

Through my practicum experience, I was able to work closely with my site supervisor to gain experience and complete my action-based research project. The knowledge attained has been relevant and pertinent in my current role as assistant principal. Overall, the K-12 principal certification program enabled me to create a vision and strategic plan focused on higher school achievement.

Why did you choose our principal certification program?

A representative from Point Park University came to our school to discuss their program options. The K-12 principal certification program at Point Park caught my interest because the tuition was reasonable, the online class options provided flexibility and classes were taught by faculty with valuable school experience and students are well supported by a cohort of educators.

The educators in my cohort brought diverse experience, an opportunity for collaboration and a cultivation of professional and personal networks that has continued beyond the degree. Additionally, I had heard positive feedback from other professionals who had continued their learning through Point Park University.

In what ways did our faculty and classes impact you?

One of the greatest takeaways from Point Park University’s K-12 principal certification program was the practice of introspection and reflection. The coursework helped me to examine my own thoughts and feelings while also understanding that the true compass is about investing in others and bringing the organization together around a common vision.

I was exposed to diverse thoughts and opinions regarding administrative leadership through genuine collaboration within our cohort, realistic case studies and reflection opportunities. The classes helped me look inward and explore my mindset as a leader while improving upon my weaknesses and enhancing my strengths. Furthermore, the K-12 principal certification program is comprehensive, making me well prepared to succeed on the Praxis Exam.

How did you balance your school work with your career and family life?

Graduate students who also work and have family responsibilities must carefully consider which graduate programs meet their needs. With two very young children at home, I required a program that met my professional goals while also allowing for flexibility.

The online program allowed me complete work when it best fit into my schedule, even if that was at 9 p.m.! While the professors were clear about deadlines and expectations, they also served as a strong support system, which enabled me to juggle my responsibilities.

Final thoughts?

After my positive experience completing the K-12 principal certification program, I am now considering Point Park University’s Ed.D. program in leadership and administration. I recommend Point Park University to any educator who is looking to pursue professional learning.

K-12 Principal Certification Graduate Appointed Assistant Principal for Spring Cove School District Alumni Profile