Through the windows of a biology classroom in Ithaca College sits a young man aspiring to become a physical therapist. Passionate about science, the college student sees biology in his future—but what started out as teaching biology has eventually turned into becoming Langley’s new junior class principal.
After serving as our Director of Student Activities, Mr. Corey Bowerman will take on the role of Assistant Principal for the class of 2012 following the retirement of current AP Michelle Norrell on January 1. While students and teachers alike see the former DSA as a natural leader, many don’t realize the path his journey as an educator has taken.
For many years, Mr. Bowerman served as a science teacher, starting in Fairfax County in 1993 at Sandburg Middle School and moving to West Potomac High School in 1996 to teach biology.
As the Assistant Principal position also oversees the science and special education departments, Mr. Bowerman’s experiences are not going to waste.
“In my mind, that’s why this position made sense. Being a science teacher gives me a good understanding of what the teachers are going through,” Mr. Bowerman noted. He also has experience with team taught classes, giving him exposure to special education.
As Langley’s DSA, he has made an effort to support each and every sports team.
“Even though tennis is not of the biggest sports in terms of fans, he would always come to our matches to cheer us on,” said senior Sophia Vasiliadis. “Last spring, he even drove all the way to Newport News to see us lose in the state semifinals.”
“Mr. Bowerman is the reason we are two and soon to be three-time state champions. The sports teams wouldn’t be so successful without his support and guidance,” said junior lacrosse player Clay Rivers.
Although he will no longer serve as the DSA, Mr. Bowerman has made it clear that his presence at sporting events won’t be missed. “I’ll still definitely be involved by going to games and supporting the Saxons,” he added.
As far as the new position goes, Mr. Bowerman says “It’s going to be an exciting change, and it’s going to be a challenging change. Dr. Norrell’s been an institution here, and it takes time to learn the job.”
With his six years of Langley leadership under his belt, the transition won’t be too difficult in the eyes of the students. “The class of 2012 is very lucky,” said Vasiliadis.
In terms of the future, many wonder if the new Assistant Principal will continue to move up in the ranks. “This nice thing is that this will give me a broad view of administration in the county,” Mr. Bowerman said. “It’s nice to have choices, but too early in the game to say where I’ll be in five or 10 years.”