The Man Who Became A School

Here is the story of Summerfield Grade School and Charles Kamm, a principal and teacher who devoted his entire professional career to this rural Illinois school. A modest man of quiet dignity, understated intelligence, wit, and gracious manner, Kamm communicated his principles and sense of purpose to those around him for 38 years. He created a school family, where each person was valued, and encouraged the development of a community family, where parents, grandparents, and citizens participated in the programs and activities of the school. This book is not intended to be a nostalgic walk down memory lane but rather an illustration of what is possible when principles guide administrative decision-making. Although Kamm’s career as a teacher and principal came to a close in the 1990s, the basic principles of thought and behavior that directed his practice are timeless in their application. Schools, teachers, communities, and legal mandates change, but the core ideals of successful human relationships remain the same. An Afterword outlines current research related to the nurturing principal, and describes the legacy left to Summerfield School by Mr. Kamm.