WEST MIFFLIN — Monica Poupakis had plenty of inspiration when she decided to go into the education field. To be able to return home to West Mifflin to continue her career is extra special, though.

Poupakis, a West Mifflin native and 2010 graduate, recently was approved by the school board to serve as the Dean of Students at West Mifflin Area Middle School.

“I’m from this community. I was born and raised in West Mifflin, and it feels very good to be back,” she said.

Poupakis attended Cal U and then Point Park University, where she received her teaching degree in early childhood/Pre-K-4. She began teaching in McKeesport as a substitute, and then a year ago, was contracted as a technology teachers for grades K-5.

After several years of classroom instruction, Poupakis decided to take on an administrative position.

“One of my stronger assets is being a leader,” she explained. “I have a lot of coaching experience, as well as taking on leadership roles within the McKeesport Area School District. I also always wanted to follow in my aunt’s footsteps, as she started off as a teacher and worked her way up to a former superintendent.”

She added, “West Mifflin will always be home to me. My family still lives in the community. When I saw this position open, I knew it was the perfect time for me to leave the classroom and pursue a leadership role.”

She also draws inspiration from some of the very teachers with whom she’ll be working.

“The teachers I had throughout my years at West Mifflin are the people who inspired me to go into education in the first place,” she said. “It’s fitting for me to be right back where I started.”

In her new role, Poupakis says she will put an emphasis on both students and staff.

“I want the kids to come to school each day to receive the education that they deserve. Helping kids to stay out of trouble and excel in and out of the classroom will be a main focus for me,” she said.

Poupakis added, “I have not met every teacher yet, but some of these teachers I had when I went to school here. I am so excited to work alongside of the teachers I know and to meet new faces.  I want everyone on the staff to know that I am here to help them with whatever needs they may have.”

The familiarity she has with the district also will be beneficial, she noted.

“I graduated from West Mifflin, and I’ve worked in the McKeesport Area School District over the last eight years. I’m familiar with many of the initiatives and interventions that are used to help students succeed. I strongly believe that if I need any type of help or assistance, Dr. Minford and Mr. Campana will be there to lead me in the right direction.”