Q&A with Principal Edwards
October is National Principals Month, so it’s a great time to shine the spotlight on a few of Arlington ISD’s outstanding principals. First up is Kiesha Edwards, the second-year principal at Ellis Elementary. Her education career spans 26 years, with nine here in Arlington ISD.
We caught up with Edwards and asked her a few questions.
〉What inspired you to become an educator, and what led you to become a principal?
I became an educator because someone saw something in me before I saw it in myself. While I was giving drug and alcohol prevention presentations at the University of North Texas to students ages 10–16, an educator noticed how I connected with students and the influence I had in a short time. He encouraged me to interview for a teaching position. The next day, I received a call from the principal Barbara Fishers’ secretary. That conversation opened the door to education. As a teacher, I saw how much a caring adult with high expectations could change a student’s experience. I became a principal because I wanted to extend that impact beyond my classroom to support teachers and build a strong school community for students.
〉What is the most important part of the job?
The most important part of my job is making sure students and staff have what they need to thrive. That means creating a school where everyone shows up and does their best work.
〉What is the best part about being a principal?
Those moments when a student realizes, I can do this! And when they come to visit me with their kids and family.
〉What’s the hardest part?
The hardest part of being a principal is managing competing priorities. Students, staff, and families all need support, often at the same time.
〉What is something about your school that you wish more people in the community knew?
Our students are capable, our staff cares deeply about kids, and we are making progress.
〉What do you hope every student feels when they walk through Ellis’ doors?
I hope every student feels safe, welcomed, and valued when they walk through our doors. I want them to know the adults at Ellis believe in them, will challenge them to grow, and will be there to support them every step of the way.
〉What’s something people might be surprised to learn about you?
I love sports! I’m a varsity official for volleyball and basketball.
〉What’s your favorite way to recharge after a busy week?
I recharge with good food and live bands, or a good Lifetime movie and my favorite Dallas Cowboys blanket.
〉Do you have a favorite restaurant in Arlington or Grand Prairie?
Abuelo’s Mexican Restaurant and BJs.
〉What’s one song that would have to be on the soundtrack of your school year?
“Ain’t No Stoppin’ Us Now” by McFadden & Whitehead.