Background:
Marie Hautigan is the principal at Piper High School, where she has been serving for the last seven years of her 18 years at Broward County Public Schools.
Marie Hautigan of Piper High School was named the Broward County Public Schools (BCPS) 2023 Caliber Awards Principal of the Year for her transformative leadership, improving school culture, academic rigor, and student achievement at the school. Her recognition highlights her commitment to community building, inclusivity, and leveraging programs like Cambridge International to boost student success, including achieving a 99% graduation rate in 2023.
Ms. Hautigan believes education opens a pathway for a student to reach his or her full potential. Education improves an individual’s quality of life and results in a more intellectual, lucrative and benevolent society.
“I’m proud to have led my community to reclaim the greatness that had previously been forgotten by our stakeholders,” Hautigan said. “My goal is for every Bengal Scholar to take at least one college-level course before he or she graduates. My initiative has significantly contributed to the improvement of the school culture and the endless pursuit of a student body focused on achieving its full potential.”
Ms. Hautigan is known for sometimes using unconventional methods to communicate with her students, Hautigan isn’t shy when it comes to creating those special bonds. From performing with the school’s cheerleaders and step team, to showing her moves with the girls’ dance team and school band, she has used these opportunities to communicate with students how impressed she is with their talents and abilities. She also demonstrates the importance of trying your best, especially on things outside your comfort zone.
At the conclusion of the 2025-2026 school year Ms. Marie Hautigan will be retiring.