The Black and White

by Kaylie Martell 

Mr. Bailey’s recent promotion makes him new to the administration field, but not to Pilgrim! And though technically no longer a member of the faculty, after spending 19 years as a special educator, including 16 years teaching within Pilgrim’s social support program, he felt ready to challenge himself by taking on a new role. When asked why he made the switch, he explained, “I felt like I needed a professional change in my life. Change is good.” 

Although administration is new to him, Bailey explains that the work is similar to what he did in special education, just on a larger scale. He expresses how this decision happened “very quickly” and felt “very overwhelming”, but ultimately, he says he “couldn’t pass up the chance to stay in this building, stay in Pilgrim.” 

Bailey’s connection to Pilgrim stems deeper than his years of teaching. As a former student and Pilgrim graduate, he developed a personal connection with this school and job. “I know what it’s like to walk the halls as a student. So I take great pride in giving back to the school and community.” Mr. Bailey’s new role includes handling issues such as student discipline, attendance, and ensuring a safe environment for the students and staff. In addition to supervising the student body, he aims to serve as a community liaison, build positive connections with students, and to assist “teachers and families in working together to meet students’ needs.” The best part of being an administrator, he says, is “establishing relationships with kids, students, families, and teachers”. He adds, “I enjoy being at Pilgrim, and I’m excited to see where the second half of my career takes me.