In the Lake Shore district, principal Dr. Janelle Bross is an icon of dedication and inspiration. Having served the district since 2007, Dr. Bross has not always been the principal, growing from a history teacher to a beloved principal known for her leadership and commitment to students and staff.

Dr. Bross’s path to becoming a principal is as unique as it is inspiring. “I actually went to a mass science center when I was in high school. I thought I wanted to be a surgeon,” she said. However, her love for dogs distracted her from a medical career. “Then I changed that and wanted to be a veterinarian, then I realized I just like dogs and I didn’t want to operate on sick dogs.”

It was a random class at Michigan State University that changed her direction. “I needed a social studies class for my gen ed credit and fell in love with history. That’s how I became a history teacher,” she explains. This set the stage for her career in education.

Outside of her professional responsibilities, Dr. Bross is a person of many interests and talents. “I spend a lot of time with my family; we like to walk nature trails. I like to listen to music, watch movies, and read. I read a lot,” she says. She maintains a connection with her interests, balancing work and relaxation perfectly.

One fun fact that might surprise her students is that “my ears get itchy when I’m tired,” Bross says. It’s these little things that make her relatable and lovable to the school community.

Dr. Bross’s talents are not confined to her office. She has a background in theater, having participated in several shows during high school and even being a wedding singer. “I used to do a lot of singing for my church. I auditioned to join a group called the Young Americans when I graduated from high school, so I actually moved out to California for a year to do some singing. That was pretty cool,” she says.

Her involvement in the school’s production of “Grease” was a highlight. “It was one of the most incredible experiences of my life,” she says. When asked if she would participate in future musicals, her enthusiasm is real. “Hands down, absolutely.”

Dr. Bross is known for her caring and approachable leadership style. She is more than just an administrator; she is a mentor, a performer, and someone who genuinely cares about the overall development of the Lake Shore students.

Her story shows the importance of pursuing one’s passions and being open to life’s unexpected twists. As Dr. Bross continues to lead with passion and purpose, she serves as an inspiration to others, reminding us that the journey to finding your true calling can be just as rewarding as reaching the destination.