“My favorite part of serving as a principal is the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the entire school community,” said Principal Hardenburgh. “I love being able to support both students and teachers, helping to create an environment where everyone can thrive. Seeing the growth and success of students, whether academically, socially, or emotionally, is incredibly rewarding.”
Hardenburgh also enjoys collaborating with teachers and staff to develop innovative strategies that enhance the educational experience for everyone involved. He sees relationship-building with students, parents, and staff as an invaluable part of his job, which comes in handy when dealing with the many ups and downs that come throughout any school year.
A veteran educator, Principal Hardenburgh worked as an elementary school teacher for fifteen years after graduating from Grand Valley State University with a bachelor’s degree in social studies and education. Then, he became a principal at a nearby elementary school before coming to Chandler Woods Charter Academy in 2021, where he served as the Middle School Dean of Students and Special Education for one year before becoming the principal in October 2022.
Hardenburgh’s career in education keeps him intrigued and fulfilled since it demands him to continuously learn and adapt. He adds, “Education is a powerful tool for change, and being part of that transformative process is incredibly rewarding. Seeing students grow, develop critical thinking skills, and achieve their potential is what drives my passion for teaching.”
Principal Hardenburgh’s favorite NHA Moral Focus Virtue is integrity because he believes it forms the foundation of trust, respect, and ethical behavior in both personal and professional relationships, and he aims to use this virtue in everything he does at Chandler Woods Charter Academy to help build a positive school culture. As the school year begins, Hardenburgh looks forward to a year of academic growth for everyone. Specifically, he wants each child at his school to grow with a deep sense of self-worth and confidence, knowing they are capable, valued, and loved while taking steps to achieve their dreams.
Quick Facts:
- Outside of school, Principal Hardenburgh enjoys weightlifting as a hobby.
- He earned a bachelor’s degree in social studies and education and his master’s in educational leadership, both from Grand Valley State University.
- Principal Hardenburgh’s favorite quote is: "Believe in yourself and all that you are. Know that there is something inside you that is greater than any obstacle." — Christian D. Larson
- His favorite book is “The Chronicles of Narnia” book series, and he enjoys watching “Lord of the Rings” in his free time.
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About Chandler Woods Charter Academy
Chandler Woods Charter Academy is a tuition-free, public charter school in Belmont, Michigan, serving students in Young 5s through eighth grade. It is part of the National Heritage Academies network, which includes more than 100 tuition-free, public charter schools serving more than 65,000 students in kindergarten through 12th grade across nine states. For more information, visit nhaschools.com.
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