Romeo Bourdage shares his vision as AHS Principal

ALPENA, Mich. — While Alpena High School students had their last day of school today, Assistant Principal Romeo Bourdage also had his last day in the E–House before becoming the head principal next year.

Bourdage has been working with the school district for 30 years, and he’s been in Alpena High School for all but one of them.

“I bleed green and white,” Bourdage told WBKB. “I love Alpena High School, and it’s a very proud moment for me.”

Bpurdage said his main priority heading into next year is student achievement, or how well they do academically. However, in order to accomplish that, Bourdage said he and his staff need to focus on connecting with every student.

“As we invest in our students, we invest in believing in them,” Bourdage said. “We have to really do that wholeheartedly, and it’s everyone.”

As an educator, Bourdage says the impact he has on students means the most to him. He says his experience, passion, and willingness to connect with students makes him the right man for the job.

“I’m really excited,” Bourdage said. “I think the passion I bring is genuine and I think kids know it. I wear my emotions on my sleeve, I’m a pretty good thinker and I’m passionate at what I do.”

And, after 30 years of first-days-of-school, Bourdage is still nervous for the next one.

“In 30 years I’ve never not been nervous,” he said.