North Elementary School Administrators Foster Family Feel with Students, Teachers and Families

ALTON - North Elementary School is known for its sense of community, and the administrators have played a major role in creating this family feel.

This National Principals Month, North Elementary School Principal Lisa Harris and Assistant Principal Rondilynn Smith are eager to share more about what makes the school so special. Both Harris and Smith believe the school is a powerful example of what happens when teachers, administrators and students come together to promote success and kindness.

“We’ve got a great family for sure,” Harris said. “The best part of North is the people. The staff are always working hard and just doing everything they can to make sure every child succeeds. Our students are wonderful. They come in every day ready to work, and then our families are so supportive and always asking how they can help.”

Harris has served in the principal role at North for three years, while this is Smith’s first year in the assistant principal position. The duo noted that they “make a really good team” and “clicked right away.”

They come from different backgrounds and can collaborate to support students through whatever challenges may arise. Both are impressive educators and eager to help students succeed.

Similarly, Harris highlighted the value of working closely with the Alton Community Unit School District #11 administration. She pointed out that North has a great relationship with the district-level administrators, and Harris and Smith always feel supported as they work together with these educators.

Smith added that it means a lot to work for the district in which she was educated. She cares about the families and students, and she works hard to build up the community.

“I am actually from here, born and raised, went through the Alton schools. Getting an opportunity to give back to my community is something that I really enjoy,” Smith said. “I’m getting an opportunity to really know the students, know the families. Everybody is just so supportive — not just the families, but the staff, everybody’s just very supportive. Working here, it’s a joy for me. It’s definitely a joy for me”

North Elementary School continues to provide a space for students to learn, play and grow. Harris and Smith are proud of the school they’re building, and they can’t wait to see this community do more in the future.

“I just am incredibly proud of the progress that we’ve made as a school,” Harris said. “I’m proud of the work that’s behind the scenes of my teachers, and just watching my students, even if it’s those small wins, get excited about those small wins. I just am really incredibly proud of the progress that we have made here at North.”

This featured article is sponsored by the Alton Community Unit School District #11. To get your business or organization featured on www.RiverBender.com, contact us at sales@riverbender.com.

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