Meet Your Principal:
Q: First off, tell us how long you’ve served as principal at Ft. Smallwood Elementary and what position you held prior to this one.
A: I have been in the role of principal at Fort Smallwood since July 17, 2023. We are in week 10 with students. Prior to stepping into this role, I was the Assistant Principal at Monarch Annapolis, a public charter in Annapolis. I have also been the International Baccalaureate Middle Years Program (IB-MYP) coordinator at Annapolis Middle School and the International Baccalaureate Primary Years Program coordinator (IB-PYP) at South Shore Elementary and Sunset Elementary. I started my career with AACPS teaching at Manor View on Fort Meade, and had taught in Manassas City, Virginia prior to moving back to Maryland.
Q: What’s your favorite part of coming to work at Ft. Smallwood each day?
A: As the principal of Ft. Smallwood, my favorite part of coming to work each day is the opportunity to foster a thriving learning environment and a strong sense of community. Seeing the bright and eager faces of our students as they enter the school brings me such joy. I value the chance to support our dedicated staff in their efforts to provide an enriching education and a safe, inclusive space for all students. I take pride in the collaborative atmosphere at Ft. Smallwood. Working with our passionate educators, engaged parents, and community partners is a daily highlight. Ultimately, my favorite part of coming to work is knowing that we have the privilege and responsibility to influence the future of our students, equipping them with the knowledge and skills they need to succeed in life. It’s a meaningful and fulfilling role that makes me excited to come to work each day.
Q: Since coming to Ft. Smallwood, what has been one of your most memorable moments?
A: There are so many to pick from! As a new principal, I have cherished so many “firsts” in this role. One that stands out, prior to the school year starting, was Pops with the Principals. It was a meet-and-greet event at Fort Smallwood Park. Our PTA provided popsicles and I was able to meet my future students. It was so fun to play at the park. That day will always hold a special place in my heart.
Q: What makes Ft. Smallwood Elementary unique? What kind of experience do students get that they won’t find elsewhere?
A: Fort Smallwood is such a gem of a school. Our staff is made up of some of the most dedicated and hardworking people I have had the pleasure to work with. Students at Ft. Smallwood Elementary thrive academically, socially, and personally in a unique and supportive learning environment. Ft. Smallwood Elementary School stands out for its strong community ties, dedicated staff and our commitment to innovation and inclusivity. It is a true community school. You don’t get that experience in all schools. It is such a wonderful place to be!
Q: What’s your favorite part of the school year, and why?
A: The start of a new school year is my favorite! It is an exciting and optimistic time. It’s a fresh beginning filled with endless possibilities for both staff and students. The anticipation of growth and learning throughout the year is a great source of motivation and enthusiasm. It’s a time when everyone can set new goals, build new relationships, and embark on a journey of personal and educational development.
Q: What’s one interesting fact about yourself that people may not know?
A: One interesting fact about me that people may not know is that I never anticipated becoming a principal. While I’m currently a principal, at heart, I’m a teacher who has a deep love for working with children. It’s a fulfilling and unexpected journey that has allowed me to make a positive impact on the educational journey of our students.
Q: When you’re not busy with school-related work, what kind of hobbies and activities do you take part in?
A: When I’m not occupied with school-related responsibilities, I cherish my time with my two wonderful daughters, my husband, and our sweet puppy. I find relaxation and enjoyment in various hobbies and outdoor activities, such as reading, cooking, tending to my garden, hiking new trails, and paddle boarding. Our family particularly enjoys spending time on the water and doing anything outdoors.
Q: If you could travel to any country, where would it be and why?
A: Choosing just one country to travel to is a difficult decision, I love to travel and see new places. If I had to pick just one, I’d say Ireland. The reason behind this choice is my Irish heritage, and the desire to connect with my roots and explore the land of my ancestors. Ireland’s rich history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture have always held a special allure for me, making it a dream destination for personal and cultural exploration. One day!
