Retired principals leave a mark: Sue Grogan

In 2006, Shades Cahaba Elementary became the first school in the country to be named a National School of Character by the Character Education Partnership, and in 2012 it again received the honor. Many will tell you the reason is Sue Grogan.

 “That award sums up the legacy she has left the school,” Homewood Middle School Principal Linda Erickson said. “She would never take credit for it personally, but she has been so instrumental in creating an environment that led the school receiving that award.”

Edgewood Principal Tricia Simpson agreed: “Shades Cahaba is known for serving others because that is what [Sue] brings to the table. She has a spirit of giving back to the community and being part of the community. She is the reason Shades Cahaba students have such an opportunity to serve and to learn about services.”

Grogan, who retired from serving as the school’s principal in May, began her career as an admissions counselor at Birmingham-Southern College before becoming a classroom teacher in 1974.  In 1988, Grogan came to Homewood as a guidance counselor at Shades Cahaba, and later became the assistant principal.

She served as the school’s principal for 13 years.

“She is through and through a leader and does so with a teacher’s heart,” Shades Cahaba Assistant Principal John Lowry said. “It’s impressive that she has been a leader for so long but never loses focus on enriching the lives of whatever kids walk through the front door. She is extraordinary at being able to maintain that focus and do what’s best for the families and students we serve at Shades Cahaba.”

Erickson, a friend of Grogan since college, also recognized how Grogan always put students first.

“[Sue] has a wonderful capacity to care about children and be able to objectively do what’s best for them. Even when it may not be the easiest way to go, she feels it is right,” Erickson said. “That’s always what motivates her and is behind every decision she makes. It is a wonderful example for all of us.”