Coronado Middle School Gets Pint-Size Principal for a Day

An eighth-grader at served as principal for the day on Monday. The honor was part of an auction item at the annual Coronado Band and Choir Boosters spaghetti dinner fundraiser in March.

Kojo Sefa-Boakye, 13, got a little taste of power as he shadowed Principal Jay Marquand throughout the entire school day.

“It’s actually really fun,” Kojo said. “It put me into Mr. Marquand’s job and what he does. It’s pretty hard. He’s the big man on top.”

As students arrived for class in the morning, the school’s welcome sign displayed Kojo’s name in bright red letters, announcing his new title for the day. Some of his principal duties included hanging a banner on Sixth Street, sending a mass email to school parents, and meeting with the eighth-grade humanities teachers.

“It was great because he was able to provide his insights from a student perspective,” Marquand said.

The duo also appeared on the student-run daily news broadcast together. But just before they went on the air, the reigning principal gave his mini-me a once-over.

“Where’s your tie?” he joked.

Kojo, who was dressed in a T-shirt and jeans, quickly borrowed a tie from one of the student news anchors. He also fastened one of Marquand’s nametags to his shirt. Kojo kept the tie and nametag on all day.  

Kojo, whose favorite subjects are math and history, praised the principal’s ability to lead and multitask.

“He’s a leadership guy. That’s his thing,” the student said.

The principal had equally flattering things to say about Kojo.

“He’s got a very friendly and calm demeanor, and he’s very approachable. People feel that when they’re around him,” Marquand said. “He’s a fine young man as well and a good student and that will carry him far in life.”      

When asked if the experience had inspired him to pursue a career as a principal, Kojo smiled. “People always listen to what he wants and thinks. I kind of wanted to be in his place.”