When South Lakes students first noticed a new face in the hallways, they were confused as to who this energetic person was. Now, a few months into her time at South Lakes, Mie Devers has become a familiar figure to the community, bringing new ideas and a positive attitude to the school.
Since arriving in November, Mrs. Devers has made it clear that her mission is to go beyond the usual duties of administrators. With 25 years of experience at Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS), she has developed a strong belief in the power of belonging.
“When an individual feels a full sense of belonging, I think we can learn better, connect better, and be who we are,” Mrs. Devers explained.
This viewpoint is at the center of everything she does at South Lakes.
Mrs. Devers shared that the decision to join South Lakes was not random. It was South Lakes Principal, Mr. Seward’s leadership, and the welcoming atmosphere that drew her in.
“He’s a very unique principal,” she said. “His energy and vision, and how he connects with people, matches my beliefs about caring for people.”
Over her 25 years at FCPS, she has been a teacher, instructional coach, assistant principal, lead principal, and then Central Office educational specialist in the Equity Office. Students might remember her as the principal of Dogwood Elementary School and Fox Mill Elementary. As she has walked through the halls, Mrs. Devers has been reconnecting with some familiar faces.
“Seeing my former students here has felt like a sign,” she said. “Of course, I’m supposed to be here.”
Students may have noticed Mrs. Devers’s hands-on approach, as she has been chatting with students and joining classroom activities. Although she is very busy connecting with students and staff around the building, there is more to her role than just being present. She is working very hard behind the scenes in order to implement changes that benefit the entire school community.
One of the first things that Mrs. Devers is introducing, is the E-HallPass system, whose purpose is to improve the hall pass system and limit loitering around the bathrooms.
“We are starting the trials very soon, and I want feedback from students and teachers to make sure it works well for everyone,” she shared.
Mrs. Devers also plans to support South Lakes students by listening.
“I want to build something together with the students, not on their behalf,” she emphasized. “I want the students to be a part of the process.”
Whether it is improving learning environments or addressing attendance issues, Mrs. Devers is committed to understanding the students’ perspectives and finding ways to help them.
She also understands the challenges of a big high school like South Lakes.
“It’s a large community, but I am focused on making strategic changes that can have a big impact over time,” she stated.
One thing students have picked up on is Mrs. Devers’ positive energy.
“When I first walked through the halls saying hi to everyone, students were a bit surprised,” she laughed. “Now, they greet me back, and it feels like we are building something positive together.”
One of Mrs. Devers’s goals at South Lakes is to create a space where students feel valued and empowered.
“I want every student to know they are worthy and have a place here,” she said.
As students continue to get to know their new assistant principal, they can expect more opportunities to engage and share their voices. Mrs. Devers’s simple advice for everyone is to “just show up. Whether it is for school, a club, or a conversation, showing up is the first step to success.”
With Mrs. Devers alongside Mr. Seward, South Lakes students can look forward to an environment that values belonging, growth, and positivity!
