Lori Shaak moved to the Florida Panhandle in 2008 during a military assignment and quickly found a place she could call home.

• Originally from Pennsylvania, she built a career in education that has spanned elementary, middle, and now high school leadership — bringing a deep understanding of student development to every role she’s held.

Lori serves as the Interim Principal of Collegiate High School at Northwest Florida State College, a public charter school where motivated students earn college credit while completing their high school diploma. In a fast-paced, academically driven environment, her leadership centers on empathy, consistency, and creating opportunities that allow students and staff to thrive.

Are you a life-long local, if not, where are you from originally and how did you end up in the area?

I was born and raised in Pennsylvania and moved to the Florida Panhandle in 2008 when my family was stationed here on a military assignment. Like so many others, I quickly fell in love with this area and now proudly call it home.

What’s your current job title and where do you work?

I serve as the Interim Principal of Collegiate High School (CHS) at Northwest Florida State College, located on the Niceville campus. CHS is a public charter school that gives high school students the opportunity to earn college credit and even an associate degree while completing their high school diploma. It’s a unique, fast-paced environment where students thrive through challenge and opportunity.

What’s your morning routine?

Before arriving on campus, I take time to review my schedule and scan emails so I can start the day organized and ready to support both students and staff.

Describe what a typical workday looks like for you.

No two days are ever quite the same, which is one of the things I love most about this role. My day is filled with interactions with students and staff, meetings, emails, and collaboration on projects that strengthen our academic and support programs. Every day brings a new opportunity to make a positive impact. There’s always something exciting happening at Collegiate High School!

What’s the first thing you do when you get to work (or start your workday)?

Each morning, I touch base with our Assistant Principal, Tristin Waller. We review our schedules and priorities for the day to ensure we’re aligned. It’s a great way to stay connected and lead effectively as a team.

What tools, apps, or gadgets can’t you live without?

The Amazon app is probably my most-used tool, it seems to find its way into my daily life more than I’d like to admit!

Apple or Android?

Definitely Apple

What’s your go-to coffee (or tea) order?

I don’t drink coffee or tea, which most people find surprising, but it works for me.

What’s your go-to lunch spot or work snack?

I usually pack my lunch. The pace of the day doesn’t often allow time to leave campus, so I come prepared.

What’s one local business you love supporting?

I love supporting local restaurants.

What’s the best piece of career advice you’ve ever received?

The best advice I’ve received is to lead with empathy, kindness, and consistency. By prioritizing relationships and modeling steady, thoughtful leadership, you create an environment where others feel valued and inspired to do their best work.

If you could give your 20-year-old self a piece of advice, what would it be?

“Never say never.” Early in your career, it’s easy to think you’ll never take certain paths and then one day, you realize you’ve done exactly that and discovered something you truly love.

How do you unwind after a long day?

I enjoy taking walks and spending time outdoors. It’s a simple but an effective way to reset and clear my mind.

What’s one thing most people don’t know about you?

Most people don’t know that I began my career in elementary education. I originally planned to be a kindergarten teacher, worked as a supervisor in a Head Start program, and then spent 11 years teaching middle school. I’ve loved every step, but I feel at home in a high school setting, helping students grow into confident young adults.

What’s your favorite local event or tradition?

I love so much about this area, there’s always something great to do. I especially look forward to our New Year’s Day dunk in the Gulf every year. It feels like a fresh start and a fun, energizing way to begin the new year.

What’s inspiring you right now (book, podcast, person, hobby)?

I’m inspired every day by the incredible team I work with. Our faculty, staff, and bus drivers are dedicated to students and to each other. Their passion and teamwork make me a better leader and person.

Early bird or night owl?

Early bird! There’s something so peaceful about watching the sunrise and knowing a new day full of possibilities lies ahead.

Most used emoji?

The laughing emoji, laughter is essential in education!

Music while working — yes or no? (and if yes, what’s on your playlist?)

Sometimes I put on music. When I do listen, my current go-to is P!NK Radio on Pandora.

Favorite motivational quote?

“It is what it is.” Some might not find that motivational, but to me it’s a reminder to accept what life brings, make the best of every situation, and focus on what you can control.

Standing desk or sitting? Mix?

Sitting desk.

If you could give any advice for someone getting into the same field as you, what advice would you give?

Surround yourself with passionate educators. Every day, I learn something new from the talented people I work with at Collegiate High School and Northwest Florida State College. Education is always evolving, and collaboration is the key to making a lasting impact.

Anything we missed that you want to add?

I feel incredibly fortunate to serve at Collegiate High School at Northwest Florida State College. It’s an amazing place where high school students can experience the rigor and responsibility of college life while being supported by caring and dedicated educators. Our school allows us to open doors for students that lead to bright futures, and I’m honored to be part of that journey.