Q&A with Principal Bholan
October is National Principals Month, so it’s a great time to shine the spotlight on a few of Arlington ISD’s outstanding principals. Today we’re highlighting Dr. Ben Bholan. Bholan has been the principal of Arlington College and Career High School since it opened in 2019. Before that, he was the first principal at Arlington Collegiate High School. A graduate of Arlington ISD himself, Bholan has spent 25 of his 32 years in education here in Arlington ISD.
We caught up with Bholan and asked him a few questions.
〉What inspired you to become an educator, and what led you to become a principal?
When I was in college, I changed my major four times! I spent a lot of time praying about what direction to take, and I think God put teaching on my mind. After becoming an assistant principal, I experienced the positive difference you can make campus wide as an administrator. This motivated me to pursue the principalship.
〉What is the most important part of the job?
〉What is the best part about being a principal?
〉What is something about your school that you wish more people in the community knew?
At ACCHS, we have always been an A rated campus. This may paint the perception that we only allow the top students to attend our school. The truth is that we have many students who have been unsuccessful at STAAR tests and have earned low grades in elementary or junior high. The work that our teachers put in and the environment created at our campus helps so many students achieve at a high level even though they may have not been on track to graduate when they started here as freshmen.
〉What do you hope every student feels when they walk through ACCHS’ doors?
That they are welcome, supported, cared for, and that everyone believes they can succeed.
〉What’s something people might be surprised to learn about you?
I am a product of AISD. I attended Nichols Junior High and graduated from Lamar High School.
〉What’s your favorite way to recharge after a busy week?
I like to spend time with my family and going to church. I also enjoy playing golf with friends because it teaches you patience and I can ignore my phone for a few hours!
〉Do you have a favorite place you have visited for a vacation?
Italy was my favorite place to visit, and I have been fortunate to go there twice. The pace of life is so much slower and relaxed and the people there have a true appreciation of each day. Conversation and community is valued, and cell phones are not a priority.
〉What’s one song that would have to be on the soundtrack of your school year?
“Don’t Stop Believin'”