HSD Leaders Reflect on a Summer of Adventure

Hazelwood School District administrators Juanita Shaw (North Middle assistant principal), Dr. Kelly Kozlen (Armstrong principal), and Dr. Veronica Macklin (Central High principal) spent their summer embracing bold experiences — from cross-country travel to skydiving.

For Juanita Shaw, summer meant a solo motorcycle journey to Alaska, covering Missouri, Iowa, Nebraska, South Dakota, Montana, Idaho, Washington, Canada, North Dakota, and Minnesota. A seasoned Harley-Davidson Road Glide rider, Shaw has logged over 90,000 miles across North America in the past eight years, including 43 states and four coast-to-coast trips.

“I travel to see the beauty of our country and to share those experiences with students,” Shaw said. “We’re all lifelong learners. Exploring new places and cultures helps me encourage students to pursue their dreams, no matter how big.”

Dr. Kozlen spent 11 days in Ireland, exploring the Cliffs of Moher, the Ring of Kerry, and historic landmarks like Dublin Castle and the Rock of Cashel.

“The landscapes were breathtaking, and the people were incredibly kind,” Kozlen shared. “Travel builds empathy and reminds me why our work with students is so important. Ireland should be on everyone’s bucket list.”

Meanwhile, Dr. Macklin took her sense of adventure to new heights — literally — by skydiving.

“I jumped out of an airplane not just for the thrill, but to show that growth comes from stepping outside your comfort zone,” she said. “Fear doesn’t have to win. Whether you're jumping out of a plane or into a new challenge, believing in yourself is key.”

The Hazelwood School District celebrates these leaders for modeling courage, curiosity, and a lifelong passion for learning — encouraging students to boldly explore the world around them.