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published June 07, 2010
Mr. Wipachit—principal
Besides the coaches, tutors,
mentors and family members in his network of support, Lamar includes his high school principal, Mr. Wipachit.
Mr. Wipachit leads a team of faculty and administrators who foster an environment of excellence in academics, leadership, service, character and citizenship. Six years ago, he accepted the challenge at this Chicago Public High School, which integrates a Junior Reserve Officers Training Corps (JROTC). “We seek to develop young people to become citizens of leadership with extraordinary character,” says Mr. Wipachit.
Unlike so many larger high schools in the city, Lamar’s has less than 400 students. This allows Mr. Wipachit, as well as other staff members, to develop an important rapport with students. “We know all the kids. We know their test scores readily,” says Mr. Wipachit, who continues, “I talk to Lamar almost every day in an informal setting…usually in the cafeteria or in the hall. I can decipher things from his body language that he may not communicate verbally.”
Mr. Wipachit has seen Lamar grow and mature since he enrolled four years ago. “He did struggle in the early years. Many students have obstacles to overcome,” he says, adding, “Lamar does have a great ability to relate, and he is a good listener.”
As someone who is in a position of authority and who can greatly influence young people, Mr. Wipachit has high expectations. He challenges students daily. “I take students aside and ask them to reflect about what they can do differently and to think about the consequences of their actions. When students struggle, 80 percent of the answer lies in the ability to demonstrate self-control and use good judgment.”
This week, Lamar graduates from high school, a significant accomplishment that far too many of his peers fail to achieve. Many national studies indicate that barely half of African-American and other minority students graduate from high school, and other studies have begun to highlight the lasting impact this has.
Lamar worked hard and persevered. He is thankful for people like Mr. Wipachit, who believe that students can overcome adversity and, in fact, become a positive influence on others.