Administrator Spotlight

Dr. LeAnn Helms

Principal, Manila High School

Dr. LeAnn Helms, Principal at Manila High School, says that from the time she was in high school, she felt called to public service. "I was deeply influenced by my teachers and coaches, who not only taught content but also modeled leadership, integrity, and resilience." Her career began at Marked Tree High School at twenty years old, after which she spent a year at Riverside. She then returned back to her hometown of Manila, where she has remained for twenty years. "I’ve been blessed to serve in several roles since then—classroom teacher, K-8 assistant principal, eight years as middle school principal, and I am starting my sixth year as 7-12 high school principal. Each step has given me a new perspective on how to best support students and teachers. I’ve worked to never lose sight of why I started in this profession: to change young people’s lives."

Dr. Helms says her favorite thing about her job is "seeing students succeed—whether it’s in academics, athletics, the arts, or through personal growth. Watching a student overcome a challenge or discover their passion is what makes the hard work worth it." One of her most significant challenges is "balancing the many demands of leadership while keeping the focus on students. Education is changing rapidly, and it takes intentional effort to protect instructional time and ensure that every decision serves kids because you are making a million decisions daily." Over her career, she says the increased role of technology has been a major shift, along with a stronger emphasis on data-driven instruction and accountability. "While those changes bring challenges, they also provide opportunities to meet students’ needs in more personalized ways. In 2004, I wrote my master's thesis on using the internet to communicate with parents, with only one-third of households reporting having access. In 2021, I wrote my dissertation on virtual and blended learning, with over 90 percent reporting having some type of internet access."

For those considering the career, she advises: "Do administration for the right reasons, not a jump in pay. If your heart is in helping students and teachers grow and you’re willing to work hard, there’s not a more rewarding career. But you have to be flexible, patient, and ready to adapt."

? Q&A ! with Dr. LeAnn Helms

What is the best advice you have ever received?

“Do what’s best for all students, and everything else will fall into place.” That guiding principle has helped me make tough decisions with clarity and confidence.

What might other administrators be surprised to know about you?

They might be surprised to learn that my husband taught math in the same building as me for almost fifteen years while I served as administrator. Our daughter Chloe, a senior, has been with us since the 5th grade. Also, Santa Clause taught me how to drive a bus and the band is yet to teach me how to play the cowbell.

What is the most daring thing you’ve done?

As a new high school principal during COVID, I feel like I spent my first two years at the high school just trying to survive.

What’s something that amazes you?

I am continually amazed by students' resilience. No matter what obstacles they face, they have the capacity to rise above and achieve when pushed and held accountable.

What do you feel is your greatest professional accomplishment?

Protecting the rich traditions set forth years before I became principal, while building upon a rich tradition of educational excellence.

What do you enjoy doing during your time off?

I enjoy spending time with my family, cheering on MHS athletics, and supporting community events. I love to play golf with my husband on Saturday and watch Chloe play basketball on Mondays and Thursdays during the session.

What is one of the things on your “Bucket List?”

To see all 50 states. We will do this when our vacation time is not limited to the 2-week dead period.

When people look back at your life, how do you want to be remembered?

As someone who loved her students, had time for parents, worked hard for her community, and bled black and gold.

What do you see as the biggest benefit of AAEA membership?

I enjoy the networking and professional opportunities. I have had the chance to mentor and serve while being served. I also know the legal protection in tough situations.