Holly Middle School principal, cancer survivor awarded ‘Key to the Village’
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Wednesday, July 2, 2025
CONTACT: Christopher Behnan, Byrum & Fisk Advocacy Communications, (248) 767-4377
Holly Middle School principal, cancer survivor awarded ‘Key to the Village’
Veteran Holly educator Monica Turner demonstrates district’s continued commitment to excellence, student success
HOLLY, Mich. — Holly Middle School Principal Monica Turner accepted the Village of Holly’s “Key to the Village” last week, just a month after receiving a positive update about her cancer treatment. Turner’s perseverance before, during and after school represents the district’s continued commitment to excellence and the success of all Bronchos.
Turner, a 19-year veteran of the district and Class of 1997 Holly High School graduate, was recognized by the Village Council for her commitment to her students throughout her journey with cancer. In May, she was cleared by doctors for a medication regimen with monitored progress over the next five years.
“It is a tremendous honor to celebrate Holly Middle School Principal Monica Turner as she receives the Key to the Village of Holly,” said Scott Roper, Holly Area Schools superintendent. “Mrs. Turner has dedicated her career to serving her students and our Broncho community with unwavering commitment. From her early days as a teacher and special education instructor to her outstanding leadership as an elementary and middle school principal, she has exemplified what it means to lead with heart, integrity and purpose. Mrs. Turner brings tremendous energy, courage and compassion to everything she does. Her positivity is infectious, her resilience is inspiring, and her genuine care for students and staff is unmatched. She is both a phenomenal leader and a true advocate for Holly Area Schools — and an extraordinary role model for us all.”
Turner was named Holly Middle School principal in 2023, and was previously Holly Elementary School principal, a teacher and special education instructor. She said she has been inspired by her students, in particular, throughout her cancer journey, and is excited to open the new, state-of-the-art Holly Middle School this fall.
“I’m incredibly honored — and truly humbled — to be standing here tonight accepting this Key to the Village,” Turner said at last week’s Village Council meeting. “From the time I was a student in Holly Area Schools to now serving as a teacher and administrator, my journey has always centered around one core belief: that our kids deserve every opportunity to learn, grow and thrive. This key symbolizes the shared commitment to continue building a community where kids feel seen, supported, and inspired. I am proud to be a lifelong Broncho, and I’m even more proud to be part of a community that truly believes in its kids.”
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Holly Middle School Principal Monica Turner, right, receives the “Key to the Village” at last week’s council meeting.
Holly Middle School Principal Monica Turner, front left, poses with her family after receiving the “Key to the Village” at last week’s council meeting.
Holly Middle School Principal Moncia Turner, front, stands with Holly Area Schools Board Treasurer Peter Deahl, back left, Superintendent Scott Roper and Michelle Szczechowicz, the district’s executive director of educational services, after receiving Holly’s “Key to the Village.”