The School District of University City announced Justin Davis has been hired as the new principal of Brittany Woods Middle School. Davis most recently served as the principal of The East New York Arts and Civics High School (TEACH), a former charter school in Brooklyn, New York that recently became a member school of the New York City Department of Education. A native of North County, Davis earned a B.A. from Harris Stowe State University and an M.A. from Lindenwood University. He got his start in education in the St. Louis area, teaching middle and high school social studies in Normandy and Ferguson-Florissant schools.
During my time in high school, one of the most disappointing aspects of my experience was the leadership — particularly our principal. As a student facing constant bullying, I had hoped for support and action from the administration. Unfortunately, he consistently failed to take meaningful steps to address the harassment happening right under their watch.
Reports of bullying were often brushed aside, minimized, or ignored altogether. Students who sought help were met with indifference or vague promises of action that never materialized. It created an environment where bullies felt emboldened and victims felt isolated. Leadership should be about protecting and advocating for all students, not just maintaining appearances.
A principal sets the tone for the entire school. Sadly, Davis’s lack of response allowed a toxic culture to flourish. It was a deeply disappointing and, at times, damaging experience that could have been prevented with stronger, more compassionate leadership.
Students deserve better. They deserve to feel safe. And they deserve a principal who genuinely cares enough to act.
Hopefully, he’s doing a better job at this newer school.