Comstock Park — For 24 years, Cassie Bryant has been a familiar face in the halls of Comstock Park High School. This fall, however, she moved about two miles south to become the new principal of Mill Creek Middle School.
A 2002 graduate of West Catholic High School, Bryant began her career in the district as a physical education teacher at North Kent High School, the district’s former alternative school. She continued her teaching career at Comstock Park High School, where she held various positions, most recently with the district’s alternative program, Flex Academy, and as the work-based learning coordinator.
Bryant said she is excited to be part of the middle school team and has spent part of her summer getting familiar with the school and meeting staff.
Here’s your opportunity to get to know Bryant better through this edition of Meet Your Administrator.
Other positions you have held in education: Bryant has served as a teacher in various subjects — English, physical education and health — at Comstock Park High School and the Flex Academy program. She also served as the district’s work-based learning coordinator.
How about jobs outside education? Bryant was a bank teller throughout college. She also coached softball, basketball and volleyball for the middle and high schools.
Education/degrees: Bryant has a bachelor’s degree in English Language Arts and Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance from Aquinas College; and a master’s in Educational Technology from South Dakota’s Augustana University. She also completed the Path to Leadership program through the Michigan Association of Secondary School Principals, earning her school administrator certificate.
What drew you to this district? “I grew up nearby and knew the district was family and student centered. They have held onto great traditions and embrace exciting change within their schools. Panther pride is alive and well!”
Why did you want to become the principal at Mill Creek Middle School? “I feel like I am at a stage in my career where I can apply all that I have learned through various teaching and coaching roles to build a positive culture alongside our students and staff at Mill Creek. I have been part of the Comstock Park family for 24 years and this is a chance for me to give back so that we continue moving forward as a place where all students and staff can feel seen, heard and valued.”
What would you like to share about your family? Bryant and her family, which includes husband Eric and daughters Emerson, 8, and Waverly, 5, love activities like camping, fishing and visiting new places.
Name three great things about going into K-12 education: “Every day is a new experience. I am always learning from those around me. I am given the chance to build relationships with students and their families every day.”
What ideas or strategies will you bring to Mill Creek from your last posting? “Building culture will be my number one goal this year. I want students and staff to feel that Mill Creek is a place where they belong and enjoy being here every day! I want things to be fun and I want to push kids to make positive choices and be prepared for their next steps into high school.”
How will you encourage student voice in your building? “I plan to listen. I will ask tough questions that will look at areas in which we need to grow and respond with input from students in how we make those changes. I plan to meet with each grade level often, getting to know what works best for us as a team.”
Describe your leadership style in seven words or less: “Lead with Integrity.”
Dogs or cats and why? “Hmm … both! In my younger years I would have said dogs, but now I am split. I love the energy and loyalty of my own dogs, but the ease of daily life and corresponding attitude of my cats is enviable.”
What book, movie, TV show or podcast have you loved lately? “For focus on my personal and professional growth, anything by Brene Brown. For fun, my 8-year-old daughter has introduced me to the ‘Warrior Cats’ series by Erin Hunter and it is very exciting. I love seeing her light up when she is fully engaged in talking about the story lines and characters.”
What is one thing on your bucket list? “Going with my family on an out West trip or a trip to Alaska.”
Read more from Comstock Park:
• This grad went from the youngest in the room to leading the conversation
• Student Volunteers turn ideas into action for good
