Danielle Staple is a new assistant principal at Cape Central High this school year but she isn't new to Tiger traditions! Mrs. Staple is a proud graduate of CHS who makes her return to Cape after serving as the principal at Charleston Middle School. She is known for motivating students and her ability to make meaningful connections with families. Get to know Mrs. Staple a little better by reading the Q&A below.
Mrs. Staple, we are so happy you decided to come home to join your CHS family again! We are proud of you, Tiger!
Q: What can you tell us about your career path that brought you to your current role?
A: I was a stay-home-mom with three small children and wanted a way to earn extra money, but still, be able to be with my children. I decided to start a childcare center. To be a director I had to obtain my Child Development Associate. I fell in love with the coursework and learning about working with children. I changed my major and decided to pursue a career in education. I worked in childcare for three years before becoming a Para Professional for two years, then I went back to school full-time to complete my education degree. I graduated with a B.S. in Elementary Education from Southeast Missouri State University. I worked for the Sikeston school district teaching math and science for 5 years. I received my M.S. in Educational Leadership from Arkansas State University. I spent the last three years as the principal of Charleston Middle School over grades 6th-8th. This will be my fourth year as an administrator.
Q: What or who inspired you to become a teacher?
A: I didn’t realize until recently, what really inspired me to be an educator. I began to look back on my life and what led me to where I am today. I would have to say it was my second-grade teacher from May Greene Elementary, Frank Ellis. He was the first teacher to challenge me and pull things out of me I didn’t know I had. He took me out of second-grade books and started me on third-grade work. He showed me a world outside of where I was currently living and made me feel like I was somebody. He made learning fun and I looked forward to coming to school. He noticed my untapped potential and expected nothing less than my best!
Q: Describe your leadership style.
A: My approach to leadership is to focus on building strong relationships. I am straightforward and honest; treat students how I would want my children to be treated and hold high expectations for my students. My goal is to not only inspire students and staff but be the support and an example to others to jump into action to be the best version of themselves possible.
Q: What do you love most about Cape Girardeau Public Schools?
A: I love the diversity within the student body. Students need to be exposed to others that may not look like them or come from different backgrounds. I believe this is one way to build empathy that is lacking in today’s world. I also love that I can come back 22 years later and still see the traditions and tiger pride I grew up with!
Q: What are your hobbies or interests away from school?
A: Family is everything to me. We are Marvel fanatics and enjoy being around each other.
Q: One last question. Would you share a favorite quote of yours?
A: "Surround yourself with people who are good at your weaknesses." - Bishop TD Jakes
