Administration team doubles with two new members

Trevor Lehner, Journalism I and Tempe Kress

February 12, 2026

Mr. Wallace and Ms. Etheridge

Mr. Wallace portrait

New assistant principal feels the Farmington High School vibes

Farmington High School's new assistant principal Leon Wallace brings experience, enthusiasm and dedication to the new job. Wallace shares how receptive and welcoming the staff and students have been to him.

“It’s the first high school I've been at in a long time where you guys actually enjoy your pep assembly,” said Wallace. "I've been to a couple high schools where all their students don't vibe with pep rallies.”

Wallace noticed students here are more focused and on task compared to the previous districts he has worked in.

“Most of the high schools I've been at seem like they are about business, (but) there's a little bit more shenanigans going on,” said Wallace. “Here most I would say about 80-90% are on task.”

Wallace spent three and a half years at Alabama State University before returning home to finish his undergraduate and graduate degrees at the University of Marygrove.

Before he arrived at FHS, Wallace taught social studies and computer science at several schools in the Metro Detroit area. He has previously served as the Dean of Students for Plymouth-Canton Community Schools and as the Restorative Practices Coordinator for Crestwood School District. His experience in education also includes working as a paraprofessional for Highland Park Public Schools.

“In every school district or school building I've always worked closely with my building administrator, so I was actually getting practical on-the-job training,” said Wallace. “These experiences [gave] me a well-rounded perspective on school operations and the importance of teamwork at every level.”

Outside of teaching, some of his favorite hobbies include cooking, basketball, coaching and playing the saxophone. His newfound favorite though, is golf.

“I am totally addicted to golf,” said Wallace. “I didn't know it could be so addicting.”

During lunch, Wallace enjoys going downtown to eat. He likes many of the restaurants, but his favorites are Beyond Eatery and Mi Mosa. Although it’s only his first year here, Wallace loves Farmington’s positive vibes and the fact that everyone gets along.

A portrait of Ms. Etheridge

New assistant principal spreads the warm and welcoming vibes

Farmington High School welcomed a new assistant principal, Crystal Etheridge, at the beginning of the school year. From her many years as an elementary teacher, to now being a part of administration, Etheridge brings experience, warmth and dedication to her new position.

Whether it’s inside the classroom or in administration, Etheridge is devoted to providing support throughout students' educational career and life choices.

“I find it truly rewarding when I see people with their target,” Etheridge said. “So I’m going to be your biggest cheerleader when I know you can get it.”

Etheridge grew up in Detroit as an only child but was always surrounded by friends and family. She later attended Howard University, with plans to go into juvenile justice law. However, after working with the Erie County Department of juvenile justice, she realized she would rather work with children earlier in their lives.

“I wanted to be on the proactive side, before they made the wrong decision,” Etheridge said.

After finding her passion for helping children, Etheridge transferred to Wayne State University and majored in education. She taught for about 17 years, working in elementary schools in Detroit, Redford, and Farmington Public Schools’ Lanigan Elementary.

Although her main focus in school is her students, outside of school Etheridge enjoys spending time with her family, relaxing, and most of all, traveling.

“Traveling and doing group trips are my favorite hobbies,” Etheridge said. “I enjoy seeing the world.”

Etheridge’s dedication and approachable personality brings a positive energy to FHS and she will continue making a lasting impact to the school for years to come.

Staff Features

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About the Contributor

Tempe Kress, Co-Editor in Chief

Co-Editor in Chief and senior Tempe Kress is excited for her first year being a part of The Wingspan at Farmington High School. Kress is interested in being a part of the newspaper because she wants to explore more “creative writing outside of school writing.” She also wanted to be a journalist when she was younger. Kress primarily enjoys writing feature stories and going through the process of interviewing people and piecing together a story. Kress’s favorite hobbies include baking, reading and painting when she has time and the highlight of her school day is working in the school store. “Working in the school store is very chill and I like being able to gain work experience from it,” Kress said.