Morning drop-off gives Principal Stephen Hunter a chance to do something he values every day, welcome students to school. He says students arrive genuinely excited, and greeting them brings joy to both students and staff.  During Principals Month, we’re sharing a look at how that welcoming spirit carries through Harmony Elementary.

That care begins even before students enter the classroom. This year, Harmony paired new students in grades 1 through 4 with an adult outside their homeroom who checks in with them during their first month. The goal is to help each student feel welcomed and included as they adjust to a new environment.

Jamie Morgan, HES instructional coach, calls Mr. Hunter “the glue to our Harmony Family.” She says he has an open-door policy with staff and gives his full attention when they bring him a concern. She also appreciates his calm demeanor and professionalism when student misconduct arises. Students see his warmth in the smiles, high-fives and hugs he shares, while staff see him pitching in around the school, from lunch duty to carline. Morgan says his strong work ethic makes him “our head eagle.”

Mr. Hunter is quick to praise the staff, too. He says they create a school-family environment by stepping in to help one another, even when a task isn’t assigned to them. Their motto, “Every Eagle, Every Day,” reflects their commitment to supporting students academically, socially and emotionally.

At home, Mr. Hunter and his wife, Kristin, have been married for 13 years. Kristin works in the medical field locally in Jasper, and their sons, Hayes and Hayden, both attend Harmony.

When students leave HES, Mr. Hunter hopes they remember that learning can be fun and challenges help us grow. Above all, he wants them to know they were loved, supported, encouraged to try new things and always believed in. “No matter where life takes them, they will always be part of the Harmony family!”