Heather Anders, principal of Smithfield Middle School, was selected as the 2018-2019 Principal of the Year for Johnston County Public Schools. Kelly Holland, assistant principal of Glendale-Kenly Elementary School, was selected as the 2018-2019 Assistant Principal of the Year for Johnston County Public Schools.
Anders and Holland were honored at a special ceremony held by the Johnston County Principal/Assistant Principals Association (JCPAPA) on Tuesday at North Johnston High during the 2018 Leadership Academy.
“This is one of the crowning moments of the entire school year, “ said JCPS Superintendent Dr. Ross Renfrow. “This is a chance to offer praise, to recognize, and award the most outstanding Principal and Assistant Principal of the Year.”
The Johnston County Education Foundation presented Anders with an award check in the amount of $1,000 ($500 for personal use and $500 for her school) and Holland with an award check in the amount of $500.
Both Anders and Holland were nominated by their colleagues and students to receive the award.
Anders and Holland were surprised by their families who were in attendance at the ceremony after they were named the Amy Renfrow Leadership Principal of the Year and Assistant Principal of the Year.
“Being named Principal of the Year is a great honor,” said Anders. “It was quite humbling to be recognized among such an elite group of colleagues.”
The Amy Renfrow Leadership Principal of the Year Award is named after former Corinth-Holders Elementary principal Amy Renfrow.
Anders was described as an exceptional leader, and someone who shows emotion, passion, and enthusiasm every day. She is known for working tirelessly to better her school.
“Heather Anders is doing a great job at Smithfield Middle. She’s a vital part of the Smithfield-Selma Strong Movement and is a stabilizing force in the organization,” said Renfrow.
Those who nominated Anders described her as the cornerstone of the community and an impassioned leader who makes decisions that represent what’s best for students on a daily basis.
“It’s rewarding to see that the impact of all the hard work that our staff and students put in all year has paid off. To me this recognition is more about them than me,” said Anders. “It makes it easy for me to be the lead learner when I’m leading such a fantastic group of students and staff.”
Holland is described as someone who is dedicated to her school, students, and staff. She is known for being compassionate and promoting a positive work environment on a daily basis.
“My staff makes it very easy to go to work each day and want to do things for them and the kids,” said Holland. “When you’re happy at work your job is a lot easier every day.”
Those who nominated Holland said that she is an advocate for her students and staff, and she fights for the needs of those around her.
“Kelly Holland is a tremendous assistant principal,” said Renfrow. “She is someone who is willing to get in the trenches and fight to make sure that our students and teachers have what they need to be successful on a daily basis.”
Anders and Holland will represent Johnston County Public Schools over the 2018-2019 school year as the Principal and Assistant Principal of the Year.
Anders and Holland both said they hope to continue building a relationship between the school and community over the next school year.
