Principal of the Year

Amy Klaber, Bridgewater Middle School

Amy Klaber, the principal of Bridgewater Middle School, is committed to knowing every student by name and every staff member by their strengths. Since joining the Bridgewater family in 2022, she has fostered a culture where people come first, ensuring each individual on campus feels valued. For Principal Klaber, leadership is about being a lifelong champion for her students. —a commitment exemplified by her long-term mentorship of students, including some whose families sought out her leadership across multiple schools to ensure their student had an advocate.

"Students are honest, give the best feedback, and have amazing ideas," Klaber said. "We just need to stop, listen, and validate them." This philosophy extends to her staff, whom she empowered to design a data-informed, inclusive schedule. This strategic shift ensured "bell-to-bell" services for students with disabilities, leading to an 8 percent increase in their Federal Percent of Points Index in just one year.

Beyond academics, Ms. Klaber makes sure students feel safe and engaged. By ensuring the consistent, campus-wide implementation of the district’s cell phone policy, she helped drive a 50 percent decrease in disciplinary referrals. Recognizing that a phone-free environment requires new ways to engage, she introduced "analog" social opportunities, replacing scrolling with board games and face-to-face interaction during lunch. 

Her dedication extends to a "village" approach, encompassing everything from securing new campus fencing to mentoring other principals. By helping students and staff discover their own potential, Ms. Klaber is creating a legacy of belonging that will enhance the Horizon West community for years to come.