Transferring from a collegiate teaching background, Mr. Rowland is ready to be the next student coordinator at East Grand Rapids High School. His experience in the field of articulations and background with students set him apart from other candidates who applied for this position. 

“Just prior to this, I was at the University of Davenport. I worked on articulations. Before that I was a middle school principal and before that I was a high school counselor,” Clair Rowland said.

Mr. Rowland has been in the field for many years and knows how to play the game. His straight forward demeanor mixed with his lighthearted humor, makes him an easy and enjoyable staff member to talk to. 

Mr. Rowland understands the importance of forming connections with students, stemming from his counselor background, and uses his many attable traits to do so. 

To make this position his own, Rowland plans to make contact with each student and learn more about every one of them.

“I have to be able to make sure I know who the students are first, then make contact with them, that’s something you do overtime. I think I’ll just get to know them. Without that you aren’t going to make it your own position,” Rowland said.

Rowland’s goal is to form a friendly relationship between students so that those enrolled in online classes find him affable and approachable. Mr. Rowland is a seasoned veteran with much wisdom and an understanding of the challenges high school students face.

“I can be approachable. I’ve spent a lot of time with students in classrooms and as a counselor, so I do understand the environment, high school environment. I’ll do whatever I can to help them out with school, to get through,” Rowland said.

Student coordinators are given a flexible schedule and get to work one on one with students. The aspects of this job appealed to Rowland which led him to East.

“It was a great opportunity for me to still stay in the schools and not have to work full time,” Rowland said. 

Although the hours of student coordinator are less than a principal, Rowland is using his extra time and energy to attend various school events, showing his school spirit. He feels passionate towards everything involving our student body.

“Athletic events, I attend. I enjoy seeing what the students and kids can do,” Rowland said.

The school community is looking forward to having Rowland’s presence in the building and is excited to see how his extensive background will shape his role.