May 12, 2021
Dear Pin Oak Community,
On my first day at Pin Oak as principal, a student came up to me at lunch with a sad face. She was obviously distraught and then slowly opened her hand to show me her tooth that had fallen out. It was her first time to lose a tooth at school and my first time to have a student hand me a tooth. We both paused, looked at each other, and then I smiled and said, "let's take a picture!". She grinned and grabbed her friends. It marked our first day together and set in motion one of my favorite duties- sharing moments with kids. My heart is filled every time I see a student conquer a challenge and grow in confidence.
It is with a heavy heart that I write to you today. I'm leaving the principalship of Pin Oak Middle School, effective June 14th. I will still serve the HISD community in a leadership capacity. As we close out this school year, my focus will remain on finishing in a strong fashion, celebrating our 8th graders, and welcoming our new 6th graders.
Personally, I want to thank this community for the unwavering support you have given both me and my family during my three years on campus. With smiles, laughs, celebrations, and even during a pandemic, I worked feverishly to make the best decisions for kids. I believe that working together we have touched and changed lives. I'll always be proud of that. Thank you.
In the near future, details regarding the next steps will be communicated regarding the process for selecting my successor. Included in the HISD Principal Selection Process is the opportunity for you to participate, and I know I can count on each of you to do so.
I look forward to spending the next four weeks together, and my door, as always, will remain open to help and serve. #ChargeOn
Sincerely,
Michelle Shoulders
