Mike Sand, the principal of Byron Middle School, is no stranger to challenges. After all, he stepped into the role in 2021, during one of the most turbulent periods in education— the tail end of the pandemic. “Knowing what I know now, starting in 2021 was an interesting time to take on this role,” Mike laughs, reflecting on his first year as principal. Despite the masks, social distancing, and uncertainty, Mike and his team persevered, focusing on keeping students engaged and growing during this difficult time.

Originally from Dwight, Mike’s educational journey began in Morris, where he taught social studies for six years before transitioning to an administrative role. After stints in different districts, he found his way to Byron. “My dad is from a neighboring town, so I’ve known this area my whole life,” he shares. Byron seemed like the perfect fit, a place with a strong community spirit, where the school’s mission is closely tied to the town’s well-being.

Mike’s vision for Byron Middle School is clear: it’s not just about academic achievement, but about nurturing the whole child. “Our staff does a great job of caring for the students beyond grades. It’s about their social and emotional growth, too,” he explains. Mike emphasizes the importance of helping students navigate those awkward middle school years with care and guidance, setting them up for success in high school and beyond.

The district’s decision to reestablish the team leaders has been instrumental in helping Mike move his vision forward. “Bringing back team leaders was a game-changer for us,” Mike says. “Instead of one person making all the decisions, we have a group of experienced teachers who are helping to steer the ship.” This collaborative approach has helped the school improve significantly over the past few years.

One of the initiatives born of this collaboration is close to Mike’s heart: BMS Community Days. On Community Days, students engage in a wide range of activities that serve to strengthen both the Byron Middle School community and its relationship with our local community. “Students have given gift bags to local businesses, written thank you cards for school staff, and visited other local organizations, like the Byron Forest Preserve, to learn about and better understand what they do for our community,” Mike says. “It’s about teaching them to be grateful for the support they receive,” he explains. “Plus, it helps them see the bigger picture—they’re part of something larger than just their school.”

Despite the residue of the challenges by the pandemic, Mike remains optimistic about the future. “There were certainly learning interruptions, but I believe we’ve come out stronger,” he reflects. “The pandemic showed us how important it is to have a supportive community, and I think that’s something we’ve really leaned into at Byron Middle School.”

When asked what drew him to education in the first place, Mike credits his family. “My dad was a special education director, my mom was a counselor, and my sister is now a principal. Education is in our blood,” he laughs. “But for me, it’s about always striving for improvement— whether it’s in my golf game or in the school. There’s always room to get better, and that’s what makes this job so fulfilling.”

Principal Mike Sand may have entered the role during a tumultuous time, but his leadership, vision, and collaborative spirit have undoubtedly set Byron Middle School on a path of growth and success. And while he jokes about his small-town roots, there’s no doubt that Mike is making a big impact on the students, staff, and community he serves.