The Eye of the Hurricane staff interviewed Frederick Douglass principal Berry Greer so students could learn a little more about him.
Question: What aspect of your job do you enjoy the most?
Seeing the boys grow from boys to young men because most of them have been here since sixth grade.
Answer: What are your hobbies?
My hobbies are model rockets and I also play in a big band [Ben's Friends].
Q: What was your position before being principal?
A: I came up through the ranks, I was a dean of students and assistant principal.
Q: What inspired you to be a principal?
A: I [was] never really inspired to be a principal. I was happy in my position as music teacher. I thought I can make a better impact on students.
Q: If you were a teacher, what subjects did you teach?
A: I was a director of band; I never was a core teacher. I was always a music teacher but the students that came to me were smart. It was amazing how you can take a black and white [paper] and turn it to tunes.
Q: What high school did you attend?
A: DMC on the westside of Detroit.
Q: What college did you attend?
A: Jackson State University where I learned it all.
Q: What sports did you enjoy in grade school?
A: When I was in grade school, I liked to play football.
Q: What sports do you enjoy today?
A: I enjoy football and basketball.
Q: How many degrees do you have?
A: I have two degrees and a masters degree with 25 hours [post masters]
Q: What is your perception of FDA students?
A: They are young men, if you are around somebody for a while they become a part of you.
Q: What percentage of FDA students will go on to college?
A: I don't have the information right now, but I hope all go on.
Q: In the next 10 years, what do you see yourself achieving?
A: Hoping that Ill be retired and living good and relaxing from the teaching business.
