By Jenna MacDermant
It’s back to school season, and for most administrators that means prep work, planning, and oversight.
But for one super creative southern Indiana school superintendent, it also means turning school business into show business.
“I tell people all the time: ‘I can’t believe I get to do this as part of my job as a superintendent,’ ” he said. “I’m Mike Allen, the superintendent of Evansville Christian School, but I’m also known as ‘the parody principal.’”
For more than a decade in educational administration, Allen has written and produced elaborate YouTube videos performing popular song parodies to keep his students, parents, and staff informed and entertained.
“I try to choose ones that are fun and recognizable and that work for the story I’m trying to tell,” he said.
These include “Snow Days, Two Hour Delays” to the tune of “You Got It (The Right Stuff)” by New Kids on the Block, “Christmas Breaks” to the tune of “The Christmas Song (Christmas Don’t Be Late” by Alvin and the Chipmunks, “Spring Break” to the tune of “This Is How We Do It” by Montell Jordan, and more.
While his videos provide the natural showman a creative outlet, Allen says the biggest reward is the engagement with his students and staff.
“It’s not separate from my work – it’s for my work,” he said. “It’s a part of what I believe is part of my role which is to encourage and inspire and affirm.”