Clay Stone, principal of Steel Valley Middle School, is one of 15 honorees of the 2026 Penguins MVP designation.
What is something positive that you want others to know about your school?
Stone: Steel Valley Middle School has an incredible staff and amazing students. We pride ourselves in our diversity and being a close-knit community. Many of our staff, students, and families are lifelong and multigenerational Ironmen, so the love and support for one another goes far beyond the school walls. SVMS strives to be respectful, accountable, and safe. We push to educate the whole child. We continuously aim to provide students with authentic hands-on learning experiences that support students’ growth in core academics, STREAM, career readiness, the arts, and social emotional learning.
What do you love about being a principal?
Stone: As a principal, no two days are alike. Each day offers new challenges and opportunities. I love the continuous collaboration with my teachers, central administration, and support staff. I love being able to help, support, and guide students to achieve their fullest potential. Having been at Steel Valley for three years, as well as being fortunate enough to live in the community with my kids enrolled in the district, I love the relationships and trust I’ve built with my students and their families. Mostly though, I enjoy watching my students grow not just as students, but as human beings.
In your opinion, what is the future of education?
Stone: I believe the future of education lies somewhere in the realm of STREAM, inclusion, and a student-centered approach to teaching and learning. I think it’s important that education approaches trends, like AI, with cautious optimism and focuses on utilizing such trends to supplement instruction to enhance student engagement, rather than rely on them. The key to education will always be the personal impact a teacher can make on a child’s life. And that personal and human approach to education is timeless.