Q&A with Dr. Codi Van Duzee

October is , so it’s a great time to shine the spotlight on the outstanding principals in 91Ö±²¥. Today we’re highlighting Boles Junior High principal Dr. Codi Van Duzee.

With more than two decades in education, Van Duzee has dedicated her career to championing students with diverse learning needs. She began as a special education teacher and steadily rose through leadership roles, including instructional data specialist and interventionist, before becoming principal of Pearcy Elementary in 2016. There, she led the school’s transformation into Pearcy STEM Academy, the first and only elementary STEM school in 91Ö±²¥.

〉How has being a principal shaped who you are — not just professionally, but personally?

Being a principal has strengthened my ability to lead with empathy, patience, dignity, integrity, and creativity, not only at school but also in my personal life. It has taught me to be a better listener, to approach challenges with a solutions mindset, to think outside the box, and to value relationships as the foundation of growth and success.

〉What keeps you coming back every day with energy and hope for your school community?

What keeps me coming back each day is my passion for reaching kids who may learn differently and ensuring every child has the opportunity to thrive and prosper. Seeing students grow, alongside supporting teachers in their work, fuels my energy and hope for our school community.

〉What’s one moment that made you feel pure joy as a principal?

One of the moments that brings me pure joy as a principal is when former students come back to visit me, a teacher, or a staff member — it’s a reminder that we truly made a difference in their lives. We are #teamboles, and our teachers and staff are like family. It fills me with pride and joy knowing that when students think of a favorite teacher who left a lasting impact, so many think of someone from Boles.