This fall, before the morning bell rings and the first backpacks cross the hallways, a new chapter will begin with the arrival of Middle School Principal Kendall Shoemake (C’15)—an experienced and energetic leader with a desire to listen, inspire, and contribute to a deep sense of belonging at Principia.
“What an exciting time to be at Principia with all that's going on,” Shoemake said, clearly excited about his new role. “There’s a feeling of electricity in the air, like a vibrancy. It feels good; it feels alive. And that's the kind of energy that I like to bring to spaces.”
Complementing his high energy is an approachable leadership style that makes students and teachers feel seen and supported. “I love the Principia community,” he said. “I love what the School is doing and am a firm believer that it’s on the cutting edge—from a pedagogical standpoint, an instructional standpoint, and in its commitment to future-ready education—it’s truly unique and innovative. And that's what really excites me.”
Shoemake’s enthusiasm centers around Principia’s framework of students’ God-given and unlimited potential. “Everyone has innate, inherent, and unlimited potential with a limitless capacity to achieve their goals,” he said. “For this reason, we don't put limits or labels on students; instead, we surround them with lots of love and support.”
A natural fit for Principia’s mission and values, Head of School Terry Grigsby (US'97, C'01) said, "Kendall brings to Principia a deep commitment to our core value of LOVE—helping students recognize their limitless potential, overcome obstacles, value God, themselves, and others, and embrace excellence."
Regarding Principia’s whole-person approach to education, Shoemake emphasized that educating the whole child—physically, mentally, socially, morally, and spiritually—is essential to a balanced education. “When we talk about educating the whole child, we’re talking about belonging and mattering. Principia creates a culture of intentional character development that is essential to the student’s development.”
Grigsby said, “his vision aligns perfectly with Principia's commitment to developing future-ready students who lead with purpose, resilience, and integrity."
That commitment shines through Shoemake’s hands-on approach to leadership. “I'll be in the halls, clapping students to class. I'll be sitting in on classes, showing up to sporting events, and being an involved educational leader—one who values community and one who values relationships.”
Shoemake’s guiding principle is a simple question: “What’s best for the student?” And his accessible and caring approach ensures that students will feel seen, heard, and valued—not only during the school day, but throughout their entire journey at Principia.
“Excellence,” he says, “is the capacity to give it all and lean in. That's the metric for being the best version of yourself. I think if you're dialed into a community where everyone is committed to striving and showing up the best that they can be—that's where you really achieve that level of excellence—and we can all dream big while we're at it.”