October is National Principals Month, and we want to express our heartfelt gratitude to the amazing principals who lead our schools. Their dedication, passion, and commitment shape the educational experiences of our students and foster positive school cultures.
Ferhat Kapki has served as a school leader for 13 years, guiding schools with a deep commitment to both academic excellence and the holistic development of students. His journey in education is a reflection of passion, dedication, and the desire to shape future generations.
Kapki’s path to becoming a school leader was fueled by a simple yet profound belief: education is the most powerful tool for change. “My passion for education stems from a deep desire to make a lasting impact on young lives. I wanted to be part of a profession that helps shape the future by empowering students to reach their full potential,” said Kapki.
It’s the day-to-day victories, both big and small, that inspire him—whether it’s seeing students reach academic milestones or watching teachers grow into stronger educators. “The most fulfilling aspect of my role is witnessing the growth and success of both students and staff,” he shares. “Being able to guide and support a team of educators while ensuring that students thrive academically, socially, and emotionally is incredibly rewarding.”
Working in a charter school has allowed Kapki to take a hands-on approach, encouraging innovative strategies tailored to the specific needs of the HSAY community. “It has encouraged me to think creatively and adopt a more hands-on approach in curriculum development, staff leadership, and community engagement, all of which have enriched my career significantly,” he explains.
A typical day for Kapki at HSAY is varied, filled with administrative duties, classroom observations, meetings with staff, and interacting with students. “I focus on ensuring that the school runs smoothly, while also addressing individual concerns, facilitating professional development, and maintaining communication with parents and the broader community.”
“Some of my proudest moments as a school leader include seeing our students achieve academic milestones, witnessing teachers grow into stronger educators, and fostering a culture of inclusivity and resilience within the school. Additionally, every time a student graduates and moves on to achieve great things, it reaffirms the importance of the work we do.”
Recent successes at HSAY have been equally rewarding, particularly the marked improvement in student achievement rates. Kapki credits the school’s nurturing environment, which balances academic excellence with the holistic development of students, for these achievements.
Looking ahead, Kapki’s vision for the future of HSAY is clear. Over the next three years, his primary goals include enhancing academic programs, strengthening community partnerships, and expanding extracurricular activities to ensure students receive a well-rounded education. “Currently, we are working towards these goals by investing in professional development, adopting data-driven instructional practices, and fostering a more
engaged school community,” he says.
For those new to school leadership, Kapki offers his advice: “Always stay student-centered and lead with empathy and integrity. Building a strong, supportive team is crucial, and it’s important to remain adaptable and open to new ideas, as education is ever-evolving.”
Outside of school, Kapki recharges by spending quality time with his family, which he credits for helping him maintain a healthy work-life balance. “This provides me with the energy and focus I need to lead effectively and inspire others,” he says, underscoring the importance of personal well-being in the demanding world of school leadership.
Ferhat Kapki’s dedication to education, his students, and his staff shines through in every aspect of his work. His leadership at Horizon Science Academy Youngstown is not just about achieving academic success – it’s about creating a community where everyone is empowered to grow, learn, and succeed.