2024 heart of the School Awards

Rashida Ford

Booker T. Washington Middle School

Principal Ford’s seemingly boundless energy, positivity, and strategic leadership has led to an amazing physical and cultural turnaround in just three years at Booker T. Washington Middle School—a school that has faced persistent challenges across decades. This culture shift has led to district-leading reductions in chronic absenteeism and strong academic gains. Principal Ford is now leading a reimagining of their arts programming to serve not just her students but also the surrounding community.

“She is not only a visionary and a leader, she connects with students in such an impactful way. She has completely transformed the school into a place filled with energy, joy, and learning.” - Booker T. Washington School Partner

“Principal Ford understands not just the importance of building a culture of high expectations, support, enrichment, and engagement, but she knows how to do it. Under her leadership, Booker T is undergoing a physical transformation -- with empowering signs and beautiful spaces -- and a cultural one as well.” - Booker T. Washington Community Member

Justin Holbrook

Armistead Gardens Elementary/Middle School

In only two short years, Principal Holbrook has fostered a positive school culture for all students, families and staff so that they feel welcomed, valued and have opportunities to thrive. Perhaps most notable is that fact that, as a fluent Spanish speaker, Mr. Holbrook can directly connect with the Latino community. Under his leadership, Armistead Gardens is leading the district in math proficiency and is 15^th in the district in reading, which is even more impressive when you consider 43% of his students are multilingual learners. 

“The positive culture that thrives at Armistead Gardens is a testament to Mr. Holbrook's leadership. He has created a space where learning is joyful, growth is encouraged, and every individual feels supported and valued. His unwavering optimism and infectious enthusiasm motivate not only students and staff, but the entire community.” - Armistead Gardens Teacher/School Staff

“Principal Holbrook demonstrates he believes in inclusion and cares about our community by taking the time to create bilingual messages for important updates. He emphasizes the importance of unity and makes each child feel understood and safe.” – Armistead Gardens Parent

Benjamin Mosley

Glenmount Elementary/Middle School

Principal Mosley has led Glenmount School with authenticity and heart for the past 10 years. The strong rapport he has with his students and families is apparent – from the consistent love he provides his students to the fact that they continue to reach out to him for guidance long after leaving the school. This guidance not only applies to his students, but also his staff – six current City Schools principals formerly worked under him at Glenmount!

“Dr. Benjamin Mosley is undeniably the heart and soul of Glenmount Elementary Middle School, and his decade-long tenure as principal speaks volumes about his unwavering commitment to the school community. Beyond his exceptional leadership skills, Dr. Mosley's genuine care for students, families, and staff sets him apart.” Glenmount Elementary Middle School Teacher/School Staff

“Dr. Mosley brings a drive and dedication I've never witnessed before not only to Glenmount, but the community as a whole. He focuses on not only the oversight a staff and students, but taking the time to really get to know and understand the needs of each individual. There's not a time when you'll catch him without a smile on his face, an open ear to listen, or arms open ready to just give an uplifting hug.”

-Glenmount Elementary Middle School Parent

Natasha Pouncey

Hamilton Elementary/Middle School

Principal Pouncey leads with a belief in “cultivating each student’s gift”, which resonates throughout her building. Hamilton offers a Nature Exploration course, with regular outdoor time for her students, arts integration with a school band, rigorous gifted programming for advanced learners in both elementary and middle school, and is at the forefront of inclusive education, integrating special education students into general education classrooms. These strategic decisions have led to growth for both her general and special education students – with especially profound gains in early literacy and middle grades. 

“My principal, Natasha Pouncey should win the Heart of the School Award because she treats every student as though they were her very own. My grandson attends her school and I am able to feel good knowing that when I send him to Hamilton Elementary Middle School, that he is in the good, safe, caring, and capable hands of Principal Natasha Pouncey and her staff.” - Hamilton Elementary Middle School Parent

“My principal is innovative. She cares about how students and teachers work together to create a learning environment that affords everyone a voice and a perspective. Principal Natasha Pouncey works diligently to create a space that is welcoming and equitable.” - Hamilton Elementary Middle School Teacher/School Staff

Amanda Rice

Hazelwood Elementary/Middle School

Principal Rice has led Hazelwood to be a place where academic excellence is expected and celebrated, and this work is yielding great results - they had the largest growth on the district-wide diagnostic assessment for English Language Arts! She continues to push for greatness, which shows not only the love she has for her job but also for the students she serves. She fights to ensure they have what they need to succeed – from strong teachers who are supported through an innovative Opportunity Culture model, to providing engaging resource classes, like culinary club, dance, choir and a championship-winning robotics team! 

“Her belief in the power of personalized attention and goal-setting reflects her deep understanding that education goes beyond textbooks and exams. By fostering these connections, Principal Rice ensures that each student feels valued and understood. As the leader and mother of our Hazelwood family, she goes above and beyond to let students know that she is there to guide, support, and motivate them to reach greater heights of success.” – Hazelwood Elementary Middle School Teacher/School Staff Member

“From inclusive cooking, dance and theatre projects and performances that celebrate different cultures to collaborations with local artist residencies from underrepresented communities, Principal Rice ensures that every student feels seen and valued. She inspires empathy and openness, laying the foundation for a future generation embracing diversity and equity in all aspects of life.” Hazelwood Elementary Middle School, School Partner

Kamala Carnes

Augusta Fells Savage Institute of Visual Arts

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Principal Carnes is tirelessly dedicated to the holistic growth and empowerment of the students at Augusta Fells. With unwavering passion and boundless dedication, she embraces each student as her own. Her visionary leadership extends beyond conventional boundaries, elevating the educational landscape by expanding the horizons of opportunity for her students. Under Principal Carnes' stewardship, Augusta Fells has undergone a profound transformation, marked by a remarkable expansion of Advanced Placement offerings and the establishment of invaluable connections with prestigious programs such as the W.E.B. DuBois Princeton program. The impact of Principal Carnes' leadership is palpable, evidenced by the substantial increase in graduation rates and the commendable reduction in chronic absenteeism. These outcomes serve as a testament to her unparalleled dedication to nurturing a culture of academic excellence and personal growth within Augusta Fells. 

“One of the remarkable qualities that truly sets her apart is the genuine effort she makes to know each child personally. In a school community, where personal connections are crucial, our principal goes above and beyond to understand the unique needs, strengths, and challenges of every student. This personalized approach fosters a sense of belonging and trust among the students, creating a school environment that truly feels like a second home.” -Augusta Fells Savage Institute of Visual Arts Teacher/School Staff

“…she cares so dearly about her students and school; she gives us an opportunity to try and to be our best selves and makes Augusta a better learning environment for all.” – Augusta Fells Savage Institute of Visual Arts Student

Dwight Freeman

Liberty Elementary School

Principal Freeman leads with confidence and a clear vision for what he wants for his students. Under his leadership, Liberty has focused on English Language Arts, with specific emphasis on early grades, resulting in profound reading gains each year. He has also led a impressive physical transformation of the building and helped build a strong early learning program at the school, with a keen emphasis on their state accredited Judy Center! He’s well on his way to achieving his ultimate goal, leading Liberty to becoming a Blue Ribbon school.



“Principal Freeman is a visionary and a true change agent. As a young principal, he seeks to answer the needs of our students, their families, and the community. He has a heart for this work and pushes our leadership team to show up daily invested in our vision to instill in our students greatness.” - Liberty Elementary Teacher/School Staff

“He is there not only for the students and staff, he is there for the parents as well. If there is a problem call on Mr.Freeman because he can and will fix it, no matter what it takes. We love our principal, and he loves us.” -Liberty Elementary Parent

James Gresham

Reach! Partnership School

Under Principal Gresham’s 9 years of leadership, the Reach! Partnership School has been transformed into a thriving, comprehensive high school. Students have multiple pathways to success, from Career and Technical Education opportunities, to College Prep courses, to a specialized Life Skills program. Under Dr. Gresham’s leadership, the school has consistently increased their attendance rates, graduation rates, college acceptances, and has exited Comprehensive School Improvement (CSI) status. The school also recently received a 5 year renewal. Students are also finding success outside of the classroom through Fine Arts productions, and Athletics. They won the state championships in boys basketball 3 times in the last 6 years, the school has one of the district’s top ranked Nursing, Pharmacy, Construction, HVAC, and ROTC programs and are also Chess champions! 

“Dr. Gresham is an amazing leader, an outstanding person, and an exceptional example for our scholars at REACH! This man loves our school, our  students, our staff, and our community. He always shows up and shows out for our school family. He works tirelessly to ensure that we have access to resources that will prepare our students for all of their college and career aspirations.” -Reach! Partnership School Teacher/School Staff

“He works hard for his students and puts care into everything he does for the school.” – Reach! Partnership School Student

Latoya Lewis

Lois T. Murray Elementary School

When Principal Lewis became the school leader of Lois T. Murray, which serves students with significant cognitive disabilities, her focus was to establish a welcoming and nurturing environment for all stakeholders. Mrs. Lewis has succeeded in making this profound shift for her students by leading her school community through 21^st century school process, advocating for a new curriculum that better meets the unique needs of her students, and working diligently to build the leadership capacity of all staff. Principal Lewis and her staff are dedicated to ensuring a well-rounded learning environment for students and maintaining constant communication with families; which has made the school more connected – a place parents know their children are safe and developing. 



“Mrs. Lewis is a great role model to me by leading with her heart. She shows caring support and love with the way she attends to our students.” – Lois T. Murray Teacher/School Staff

“Mrs. Lewis knows and interacts with each of the students in the school. She actively provides hands on support to students when needed as well as being present with students during lunch and recess time. She works with staff to build community and provide support so staff can better support our students. Rather than being in the office and leading by giving direction, she leads by example and knows first hand challenges in the school which is beneficial to support staff in finding solutions. She leads the school to have a vision that challenges each student to become their best self.” - Lois T. Murray Teacher/School Staff

Stephanie Pappas

Holabird Academy

Principal Pappas lives and breathes Holabird. She has led the creation of engaging courses for students, including Immersive Media, Sustainability, and Sound Body and Mind, created an Algebra 1 course for her students – setting them up for success in high school and beyond – and brought in restorative practices strategies that have profoundly decreased suspensions. On top of this, she co-teaches an 8^th grade class to stay connected to the work of her teachers and students!

“Ms. Pappas has exhibited an exceptional commitment to fostering a positive and inclusive environment within the school. She has implemented various programs that prioritize the well-being and success of every student, ensuring that each individual feels valued and supported in their academic journey. Her hands-on approach to leadership has created a sense of belonging among students, encouraging them to thrive both academically and personally.” -Holabird Academy Teacher/School Staff

“Principal Pappas is an amazing principal that truly leads by example. She is always kind, happy, and welcoming and it makes us feel much safer and happier at school. She also doesn't just lead, she teaches my English class and is an amazing teacher.” -Holabird Academy Student