Since his graduation from Seminole in 1981, one of the most significant men on campus has continued to be a part of the school and its community for the past three decades. Principal Mike Gaudreau continues to oversee Seminole’s multimillion-dollar campus, working to persistently improve and renovate the school. After being an assistant principal for Seminole seven years in a row, Gaudreau stepped up to the plate in 2007, increasing his many responsibilities by becoming principal saying, “It can be stressful at times.” Despite the demanding situations Gaudreau faces every day, he stays involved with students around campus, making them feel like true ‘Noles. “It’s really easy to get involved with students because I truly enjoy interacting with them,” he says. “It’s usually the best part of my day. The more you see them, the easier it is to remember everyone individually.”

Gaudreau enjoys waking up every weekday and seeing the fresh faces here on campus. He tries to stay connected and involved with students as much as possible by being visible not just during school hours, but at evening events as well. “I think it’s important for students to see that I am supporting them.” Some of his proudest moments include when Seminole became an “A” school in 2008 and the football team’s state championship that same year. “Our students are so talented in everything,” he says, “that I don’t get shocked too often by their accomplishments.” Students adore Gaudreau for everything he has contributed to Seminole and are honored to have him as their principal. “He’s a hard working man that has done a lot to keep this school a safe environment for learning,” says senior Benyam Gizaw.

Gaudreau is involved with major innovations on Seminole’s campus, such as the construction project that has produced new buildings on school grounds. He believes in rewarding Seminole’s students helping to initiate the well known FCAT incentives for those who receive high scores on their Writing and Science tests. He thinks freshmen and other new students should get involved on campus and be active with different organizations. He also shares some very helpful advice for this year’s seniors: “Don’t mess up your last year. So many seniors begin to slack off and cut corners and I’ve seen too many bad things happen at the end.” Overall, Gaudreau wishes the best for all students, and continually reaches out to the thousands of students that attend Seminole.