Going to the Principal's Office - Mr. Jason Shover - Big Spring High School Administration

Last week I had the pleasure of chatting with Mr. Jason Shover, the Principal of Big Spring High School in Newville, PA. Mr. Shover isn't afraid of being an unconventional trail blazer in his field. Here are the results of our conversation.

Jason Shover, BSHS Principal

What Is Your History in Education?

After graduating with a B.S. in Elementary Education, Mr. Shover began his teaching career in the alternative education space. He shared that his main priority while in alternative education was to keep students in the building by focusing on individual needs. I personally admired the amount of dedication this feat must have required from him because he had to be well rounded as he worked with a variety of students in grades 6-12. 

Later in his career, Mr. Shover took role as Vice Principal at the Mechanicsburg Middle School. During his time as Vice Principal, Mr. Shover began to set himself apart from the traditional school administrator. Shover was never afraid to wear casual dress, show off his impressive ink, and roll up to school in a jeep without doors and windows. 

The non-conforming piece of Shover's personality is what I find to be most intriguing. He isn't afraid to be different and I believe this works to his advantage in a few ways. First, being that students likely feel more comfortable with him. Even as I spoke with him in his office, I never felt intimidated, which is by design. Just by being genuine, Mr. Shover is easily approached by students and anyone seeking his assistance. 

"The Marketplace"

Shover's intuitive thinking came in handy as he fostered the formation of a "Marketplace" at the Mechanicsburg Middle School which combatted food insecurity in a rather creative way. In efforts to reduce the stigma of receiving charity, students were able to obtain food at a school Marketplace that could be taken home for families. The Marketplace is an excellent example of community partnership as it was filled by donations from local organizations and companies. Mr. Shover was even recognized as the 2019 Pennsylvania Vice Principal of the Year mostly and in part because of the original ideas that he brought to life. 

What Is the Role Of High School Administration?

When asked this question, Mr. Shover was quick to include that he wants to "ensure voices are heard", by representing everyone, regardless of who they may be. It is even common practice for Shover to carry a pen and notepad everywhere he goes. He says it is important that he creates time for folks to share their thoughts and will make a note to touch back with them if needed. 

As a follow up question, I asked how being a principal is different from being a teacher. Shover responded by noting that as building principal, he must take in consideration the requests of an entire school and community stakeholders. Furthermore, it is imperative that he opens communication with other buildings in the district as we consider the profile of a graduate at Big Spring High School. Therefore, as an administrator, "I focus on seeing a larger perspective", says Shover. My personal opinion is that Mr. Shover is perfect for this role as he has proven to be an excellent advocate for others. 

Mr. Jason Shover - A Progressive and Community Oriented School Administrator

As indicated by our conversation, Mr. Shover is just getting warmed up in his career as a school administrator. Shover shared that he is currently pursuing his doctoral degree which helps him continue seeing the broader perspective. It will be exciting to track his progress and it was a pleasure to work alongside Jason Shover as a member of the Bulldog Family. 

Ever, Always Strong! Bulldogs!

"At the end of the day, it's all about the kids." 
-Mr. Jason Shover, Big Spring High School Principal