Andrew M. Omerzo ’17 chose Shenandoah University because he felt that it offered a unique opportunity to network outside of what was familiar to him and learn more about the educational landscape in the region. Two things Omerzo valued in his search for a graduate program that Shenandoah had were an opportunity to gain perspective and the ability to participate in face-to-face learning experiences. He received a Master of Science degree in education with a focus on educational administration in 2017.
Omerzo is the assistant principal of Potomack Intermediate School for Berkeley County Schools in Martinsburg, West Virginia. In his position, he has the privilege of supporting an outstanding community of students, teachers families and other stakeholders at the school. Omerzo assists with the development and implementation of a strategic plan, which helps the physical, social, emotional and academic needs of the students. This helps Omerzo and the school adequately prepare the students for the 21st century workforce and to support their staff in meeting the needs of their students.
As much of his job involves conflict resolution with students and problem solving with teachers, Omerzo believes the most rewarding part of his job is the little moments when he genuinely feels that he has helped someone to reach their goals.
Omerzo feels his time at Shenandoah prepared him for his career in the education field because the education administration program offers practical, problem-based experiences which focus on the application of theory to leadership practice. “All parts of my education at Shenandoah related directly to the day-to-day responsibilities of school leaders which undoubtedly prepared me for the job,” said Omerzo
Omerzo’s advice to students is: “Have conviction in what is best for kids and model your expectations.”