The Path to Popwell's Principles

As we have passed February 2024, we should acknowledge how our historical black figures changed history for Americans throughout the years. I was delighted to interview Ms. Popwell for her insight into Black History Month. We stayed inside St. Lucie West Centennial High School's library to begin the interview.

Ms. Popwell has been principal for over 15 years and manages daily tasks throughout the school. The questions as to Principal Popwell were created by Nathan Oliver-Hamilton, filmed by Robert Dy, and read by me. “We have various opportunities,” Principal Popwell says as she discussed the evolution of how black history and her interpretation of how it is celebrated in St Lucie West Centennial.

Her response was about “the various Black History activities days throughout February." I then asked how she would make sure Black History is being recognized months past after the memorable month of February. Popwell responded by notifying us that St Lucie West Centennial High School offers an African American History course that students can take.

She reflected on her commitment to having an inclusive community and allowing people grace to express themselves as they identify with their culture. Popwell, throughout the years, has appreciated all the black leaders before her who has made a way for future black leaders. Her leadership style has changed by allowing our majorette team to perform at lunch and share the culture of rich southern black heritage with music or attire. She continues to share her personal experiences:

My mom had me when she was 16. I grew up in a single-family home, didn't have any money. But my mom always prioritized education so I've always placed a high value on education, and if you do that then the sky's the limit.

She feels that the current climate of the United States makes it difficult to freely express themselves or promote dialogue without fear of repercussion. In encouraging conversations and culture appreciation among the people in St Lucie West Centennial, some people will feel like cultures present differently and people may perceive it as offensive or inappropriate. To ensure safety and community within this high school, I asked her how she would address the negative effects of promoting Black History Month. For Black History Month, for every school day, the students could participate in the days pertaining to each day like Melanin Day and 70s Day. 

After the interview was over, Popwell adds “when I was growing up if you were darkskin like there was tension between light skin and dark skin African Americans." She proceeds to say, “I think that we embrace all shades of brown which is awesome because we should support one another” and “You shouldn't be treated differently because you're lighter or darker."

St. Lucie West Centennial cherishes the works and efforts Ms. Popwell has made to boost culture appreciation and recognition for our diverse community. It's the principal's duty to make sure both staff and students are heard and find solutions to those disconnects. For Black History it is important to recognize our current black leaders and figures, and for Centennial it is no other than Ms. Popwell.