Principal Stewart
When families think of a principal, they often see the person greeting students, sending announcements, or making difficult decisions. What they may not see are the prayers, quiet moments of discernment, and deep care that guide the work each day.
As her first year as principal of Saint Thomas More School ends, Tracy Stewart reflects on a year marked by faith, relationships, and growth. One question she carried into administration was whether she would still be able to build meaningful connections with students. She quickly discovered that those relationships simply take new forms.
"Our Cyclones thrive when they know they are seen, valued, and cared for," Stewart said. Whether through classroom visits, hallway conversations, or time spent in her office, connecting with students has been one of the most rewarding parts of her first year. Among her favorite memories are the moments students proudly shared their accomplishments. One class eagerly visited her office to show off their data folders and celebrate their academic growth.
"Moments like that remind me how important it is to celebrate our students and help them recognize their own hard work," she said. Another highlight was helping establish a daily school-wide rosary. Hearing students pray together and offer intentions each morning has been especially meaningful.
"It truly melts my heart," Stewart said. "Seeing our school community come together in faith has been incredibly special." Like any year of transition, this one brought challenges. Stewart views those experiences as a season of growth and renewal, rooted in Saint Thomas More's commitment to faith, family, and community.
"My hope is that Saint Thomas More students, teachers, and families feel welcomed and supported, and every person experiences a true sense of belonging," she said. When asked what sustained her through a year of change, her answer was simple: faith. "My faith is what steadies me and shapes how I move through each day," she said. "I don't always have the answers, but I've learned to lead with humility, prayer, and trust that God is working even in the challenges."
Looking ahead, Stewart is excited about new opportunities for students, including a STEAM Lab, refreshed library, testing center, Student Success Team lab, and student chapel. "These spaces will give us new and meaningful ways to support students academically, creatively, and spiritually," she said.
Outside of school, Stewart finds joy in family life, cooking meals, sharing laughter around the dinner table, and spending time glamping outdoors. Known lovingly as "Gaga" to her grandchildren, she treasures her roles as wife, mom, and grandma above all else.
As she reflects on her first year, one piece of advice from a student continues to make her smile. While discussing school prayer, the student told her to "just keep doing it until you get good at it." "That simple honesty and wisdom have stuck with me," Stewart said.
It's a fitting reflection of Stewart's first year as principal: grounded in faith, guided by humility, and filled with grace. As she begins year two, that same spirit will continue to shape and strengthen the Saint Thomas More community.
