Besides being successful corporate leaders, what do Michael Boodro, editor-in-chief of Martha Stewart Living, and Frank Bisignano, chief administrative officer of JPMorgan Chase, have in common? In spite of bad economic times, Boodro and Bisignano, along with nearly 600 other CEOs, civic leaders and celebrities headed back to school recently to take their places as “Principal for a Day.”

Boodro and Bisignano were joined at the helms of schools in Brooklyn by Michael Fleisher, executive VP and CFO, Warner Music Group; Ivy Cohen, president and CEO, Ivy Cohen Corporate Communications, Inc.; Michael Cardozo, Corporation Counsel of the City of New York; John Reinhardt, president & CEO, Fillmore Real Estate and others.

Principal for a Day draws some of New York’s largest and most prestigious companies as well as small businesses, and serves as PENCIL's official kick-off for its successful Partnership Program. PENCIL works to transform New York City schools by creating long-term partnerships between the private sector and NYC public school principals.

“‘Principal for a Day’ is especially meaningful this year. Despite the current economic challenges, business leaders remain committed to our program. They recognize that in these uncertain times, we must continue to invest in our children,” said PENCIL President Michael Haberman. “The fact that each and every one of these ‘Principal for a Day’ visits will become a long-term partnership speaks volumes to the foresight of these business leaders.”

Principal for a Day is an opportunity for business leaders to initiate their yearlong relationships with their partner principals by shadowing them throughout the day and discussing ideas and initiatives for the school year. After greeting students, visiting classes and talking with school leaders during today's visits, the business and school leaders will develop projects to implement throughout the academic year.