After a long and honorable career of service to education, AFHS’s principal, Mr. Wight, will be retiring at the end of this year. Not only has he been an outstanding administrator, but a respected and beloved member of the community.
Mr. Wight has undoubtedly had a lasting effect on Apex Friendship High School. His faith in his staff, love for the students, and genuine appreciation for the school have made him an outstanding fixture in its formation. When asked about their thoughts on this amazing principal, students responded that “it’s always nice to hear him on the morning announcements,” and, “he’s really supportive,” but “it’s never going to be the same without him.” The latter statement seems to be shared by everyone at AFHS. Mr. Wight has become a constant presence in countless aspects of the school. Beyond his basic executive duties, Mr. Wight can be seen conversing with students and collecting trash in the lunchroom, walking around every sporting event to support the AFHS teams, and seated in the front row of every arts production.
More than being loved by his students, Mr. Wight has been highly regarded by his staff. “The thing that I value most about Mr. Wight as a boss is he puts a lot of trust in teachers as professionals,” says Mr. Stapleton, who has worked with Mr. Wight for 15 years at both Apex and Apex Friendship High Schools. “When I look back on how that helped me hone in on my voice as a teacher, to develop as a professional, I don’t know that I would have grown in that way if it were not for the way in which I was encouraged by Mr. Wight so I am immensely grateful for that.” Mr. Rothenberg, who also worked with Mr. Wight at both Apex and Apex Friendship, adds to this sentiment, saying “he has proven himself, for over three decades, to be a self-less, humble and extremely effective leader and educator. He is one of the best administrators/principals I have had the pleasure to work with during the last 35 years."
Ultimately, Mr. Wight has made an enormous impact on Apex Friendship High School. His final reflection on both the senior class and his time as a principal reiterates the compassion, humility, and strength that have made him a rock for the school’s community. “This is MY last senior class.” he says. “After working in education for thirty-nine years, serving as a high school principal for sixteen years, and founding AFHS seven years ago, my time has come to an end. I truly could not have wished for a better class to go out with. I will always remember this class for your confronting tremendous adversity and not letting it defeat you. You have persevered through one of the most challenging times in history, and not only survived, but thrived. I encourage you to learn from the experience and continue to grow strong in your personal and collective determination to always face obstacles with your best effort and energy. It has been an honor to be your principal. Class of 2022- always- Make it a Great Day!”