It’s National Assistant Principals Week! In the Arlington ISD we know how vital the role is that our APs play at every campus. They make a huge impact on the success of our students and staff. In honor of this week, we’re spotlighting several APs throughout the district.
Today we’re shining the spotlight on Bebensee Elementary assistant principal Demorris Vance.
Hometown: Jackson, Mississippi
Colleges: Dallas Baptist University and Prairie View A&M University
Favorite hobbies: Spending time with family
Years in Arlington ISD: 13
› What made you want to become an AP?
I wanted to inspire and encourage more students to become the best version of themselves. To teach them to not give up on themselves when others do not see their potential. As a teacher you get to influence 30, maybe 60 students, per year, but I wanted to give guidance to as many as I could.
› What route did you take to becoming an AP?
Well, I have always been open to critique so that I could become better at whatever it was I was doing. But to prepare myself in becoming an AP, every day, I would learn from others by observing and “walking in their shoes” as frequently as allowed. I also attended professional developments geared toward leadership.
› What’s your favorite element of being an AP?
Helping students understand that everyone makes mistakes, but we must learn from them and do better is my favorite element of being an AP. Everyone must learn to get up after a fall or else we will never learn how to rise and soar.
› Describe the legacy you want to leave at this school.
I want to be remembered as an educator that genuinely cared for all and that it takes a village to raise a child. The village includes not only the students and teachers but the cafeteria workers, custodians and aides. We are all equally important.
› What’s one piece of advice you’d give your younger self?
Do not forget to have fun and enjoy life while making a living!