A Fulton Public Schools principal was named Exemplary New Principal for the Northeast region.
Erica Hogan is the principal at McIntire Elementary School. She has been principal for two years.
Before being at McIntire, Hogan was the assistant principal at Fulton Middle School.
"Erica is one of the most genuine people I know," said TJ Quick, Bartley Elementary principal. "She's passionate about the students and staff at McIntire and not afraid to speak her mind. She gives everything to her people and to her job as principal. Erica lights up a room when she walks in. She focuses on you when you speak as if you truly matter; because to her, you do."
Each region takes nominations for this award. Quick said her team members decided they wanted to nominate Hogan, writing a letter stating why Erica deserves this award. They also reached out to her staff and got reasons why they believe Hogan deserves this award.
Hogan is the third principal at McIntire in the last few years. Her building has faced many transitions, and she came in with a mission to provide a solid foundation and do what is best for kids, Quick said.
Quick said many staff of Fulton Public Schools worked for Erica's dad, Bob Hogan, when he was the principal at McIntire Elementary. Her office window looks out on the house she lived in when he was principal. Mr. Hogan focused on the people of McIntire every day. He often said that "McIntire is a who," as in it's all about the people.
His mom, Erica's grandmother Bernice, even wrote a book with that title, that he would read to his staff often.
"Being a former staff member who worked under Mr. Hogan, and now being able to work with Erica as she leads McIntire, I've seen this school come full circle. Erica also sees McIntire as a "who." She is all about the people, every day. Erica is exactly what McIntire needs. As several staff members pointed out, McIntire has been through a lot, and Erica brings a sense of calm, safety, and trust to her staff. She deserves this award based on the strength she carries, the joy she brings, and the grace that she gives," according to a nomination written by Quick.
"Ms. Hogan has come into our building not only as a leader, but as a true teammate. Erica leads when leading is needed, but also takes advice and recommendations from not only veteran staff but new members to our team. Ms. Hogan brings a loudness and excitement to our building that not only the students love, but makes the staff enjoy working with and for her," said Laura Dooley-Wilder, staff at McIntire Elementary School.
"Erica is the heart of McIntire. Having worked with her dad, I know he would be proud of the love that she is pouring into keeping the warm and kind spirit of McIntire alive. Erica starts each day with a positive attitude and a big ol' smile on her face as she greets students and staff alike. Being an administrator is no small feat, and Erica has led us with grace, support, and strength," said Melissa Speer, staff at McIntire Elementary School.
Once all the nominations are submitted the Northeast Region Board takes a look at the nominations and makes a selection.
Hogan will be recognized at the Principal's Conference in spring 2023.
"It is nice to be honored by my colleagues for this award," Hogan said. "Honestly, the people around me are the ones who make me successful. The endless support of my staff, colleagues, and this community has put me in a position to be my best. Their support also allows me to continue to grow as a leader."