Rob Swift, relationship manager – corporate banking, Associated Bank, recently served as “Principal for a Day” on Oct. 9 at Woodrow Wilson High School in Dallas, Texas. Principal for a Day (PFAD) is a project of the Dallas Independent School District (ISD) in partnership with the Dallas Regional Chamber that brings community leaders into schools across the district.
The program is designed to:
- increase awareness and understanding among individuals in the private sector of the strengths and challenges of schools in the Dallas ISD
- demonstrate the private sector's commitment to ensuring a quality public education for all students, and
- form ongoing partnerships between individuals/businesses and Dallas ISD.
Swift has taken part in the PFAD program the past five years. This year, Swift has committed to a long-term relationship with the school and will be able to leverage his business connections to help fulfill the school’s needs.
“I am so grateful for the opportunity to see first-hand how much principals and teachers do to educate our students and help shape the future workforce,” said Swift. “It is a tough job and you’re always on your feet. From 7:30 a.m. – 3 p.m., we walked 2.6 miles, climbed 11 floors and took 6,109 steps.”
At the end of the day, all guest principals convened with the superintendent, principals and other business leaders to recap the day. They discussed their experiences and potential commitments, and made plans for future involvement with their host school or the district.
“At Associated Bank, we are committed to fostering stronger and more stable communities,” continued Swift. “Through programs like PFAD we can open up opportunities for our youth and contribute to the success of the communities where we live and work.”