
Q. What does it take to be a great principal?
Dr. Shanessa Fenner: It takes patience, leadership skills, compassion, empathy, dedication, a love for your staff, a passion for students and their learning, and the ability to monitor and adjust.
Q. What does the award mean to you?
Dr. Shanessa Fenner: It means a lot to me. It is an honor to be awarded the best of something. I will continue to put in the hard work that needs to be done.
Q. What role do teachers play in the work that principals do and do well?
Dr. Shanessa Fenner: Teachers play an integral role in our work. They are the ones in the classroom teaching our babies each and every day. They are the ones who prepare them for End-of-Grade testing. I spend a great deal of time in the classrooms each day ensuring that high-quality instruction is taking place. I make sure our teachers have the resources and materials that are needed to be successful along with professional development trainings. Our weekly PLCs are rooted in trust and teamwork. Failure is not an option at our school. We only produce winners.
Q. Why did you enter the world of education?
Dr. Shanessa Fenner: Educators run in our family. I love being a part of the process of laying the foundation for our future leaders. I have been a middle school and elementary school principal. There is nothing more rewarding than seeing the academic growth of a student. That is why relationships are key and they have to know that you genuinely care and they will produce immeasurable results.
Dr. Shanessa Fenner: It takes patience, leadership skills, compassion, empathy, dedication, a love for your staff, a passion for students and their learning, and the ability to monitor and adjust.
Q. What does the award mean to you?
Dr. Shanessa Fenner: It means a lot to me. It is an honor to be awarded the best of something. I will continue to put in the hard work that needs to be done.
Q. What role do teachers play in the work that principals do and do well?
Dr. Shanessa Fenner: Teachers play an integral role in our work. They are the ones in the classroom teaching our babies each and every day. They are the ones who prepare them for End-of-Grade testing. I spend a great deal of time in the classrooms each day ensuring that high-quality instruction is taking place. I make sure our teachers have the resources and materials that are needed to be successful along with professional development trainings. Our weekly PLCs are rooted in trust and teamwork. Failure is not an option at our school. We only produce winners.
Q. Why did you enter the world of education?
Dr. Shanessa Fenner: Educators run in our family. I love being a part of the process of laying the foundation for our future leaders. I have been a middle school and elementary school principal. There is nothing more rewarding than seeing the academic growth of a student. That is why relationships are key and they have to know that you genuinely care and they will produce immeasurable results.