Dr. William T. Logan’s commitment to uplifting public education through people is the main reason he’s been named Durham Public Schools 2023 Principal of the Year. He’s known by peers as a mentor whose attention to details and level of support for students and colleagues are unmatched. 

Eno Valley Principal Jason Jowers describes him as “present” and never too busy to build leaders. 

“Watching Dr. Logan go into a classroom and teach, or lead a PLC, showed what an instructional support team should look like when led by a principal. I’ve been able to take those things with me everywhere that I’ve gone since then,” said Jowers, who served as an assistant principal at Hillside.

Logan’s resourcefulness and persistence as an educator and school leader has paid off for his students. Hillside was one of only 17 schools throughout the state to be awarded a School improvement Grant in 2011. His ability to multitask brought about improvements in student achievement, graduation rates, dropout rates, and out of school suspensions.

“I work for you,” Dr. Logan told students gathered for the recognition held at the school. He told them– as he’s known to tell them often–that they could do anything they set their minds to doing, without question.

His colleagues say he believes in them as well.

Jessica Austin, who also served with Dr. Logan at Hillside and now serves as principal at Lowe’s Grove Middle School added, “We have been trained well.”

Austin said Dr. Logan builds a culture of belonging, while serving as an example and setting a high bar for others. She said she appreciates that he sees potential that you may not be able to see in yourself.  “Thank you for entrusting us with such a great work.” 

Dr. Dan Davis, Assistant Superintendent for Secondary Schools, noted Dr. Logan’s ability to strengthen people.

“Dr. Logan is one of the most determined, focused leaders I've met. He cares deeply about his students and staff and holds high expectations for their performance. He has built a strong team at Hillside that has provided strong support for student learning,” he said.  

Dr. Logan will be recognized at the November Durham Public Schools Board of Education meeting.  He will also participate in the regional NC Principal of the Year competition, the second step in the state Principal of the Year process.