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Who is The Unorthodox Principal?
Leigh M. Ragsdale, also known as The Unorthodox Principal, is a highly respected educator, speaker, and writer. Her unconventional leadership style and unwavering commitment to empowering both teachers and students have made her a trailblazer in the field. With a deep passion for education and a relentless drive to help educators reach their full potential, Leigh is dedicated to ensuring that every student has access to a world-class education.
Leigh has delivered keynotes throughout the midwest and on the international stage. Some of her accomplishments include being named the 2023 Daily Journal Citizen of the Year, a 2020 Difference Maker by The Southeast Missourian, presenting at ISTE with her students, 2018 Counselor Advocate Award, and one of her greatest accomplishments was being awarded the 31st Annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Service Award in Cape Girardeau, MO, which she dedicated to one of her former students that passed away his senior year. Leigh continues to volunteer for local organizations to feed underprivileged children and sits on the board of directors for St. Francois County United Way.
Leigh M. Ragsdale
I'm an experienced educator with a passion for public education that spans over two decades. My mission extends beyond the classroom, as I strive to make a profound and lasting impact on students, teachers, administrators, and families. My philosophy is simple: Don't Talk About It, BE ABOUT IT! I believe in taking tangible steps towards change and transformation in education. Through cultivating a culture of inclusivity, implementing restorative and trauma-informed practices, and embracing the power of service-learning, I have successfully turned around even the most challenging schools. Together, let's embark on a journey of positive change in your school community. Join me as we create a brighter future for every student.
TESTIMONIALS
What People are Saying
“She will continue to push the boundaries of what is possible. She will continue to defy the status quo. I believe it to be apropos that I quote her in saying, “Don't talk about it, be about it." Leigh is not a talker, she is a doer.
Dr. Neil Glass
MO Superintendent of the Year
During the pandemic shutdown, Leigh served thousands of meals at lunch time. No other principal was in the food line making contact with families and seeing what they needed. She also made sure that every one of our students was contacted...
Ms. Stacy Stapleton
Retired Teacher
She opens doors for others to go through and when there is not a door, Ms. Ragsdale creates one. Nothing is too big or too small. If it matters to the people she is leading, it matters to Ms. Leigh.
Ms. Kelley Branch
STEM teacher
448 Big River Circle, Bonne Terre, MO 63628
United States