During National Principals Month, we’re celebrating what it means to Experience Bryant through the eyes of our principals.
Leslie Smith, principal of Salem Elementary, shares how strong relationships and a commitment to students shape her school community. Through meaningful traditions, opportunities for student leadership, and attention to academic and social growth, Salem works to ensure every child feels seen, valued, and supported.
What makes your campus special to you?
We are a family who rallies around each other. When one person succeeds, struggles, or needs support, we come together.
Share one thing you want families to know about your school this year.
Our students come first! We care about the whole child both academically and socially. Our goal is for every child to know they are seen, valued, heard, and cared for while developing the skills they need to be successful both in- and outside of the classroom.
What is your favorite school tradition?
When students are seen doing something wonderful, they are given a ticket to put in our Ticket Bucket. On Fridays, random tickets are drawn. The winners get to come to our Prize Room and select their prize. You should see their faces when they find out their ticket was drawn ... pure happiness!
Where is a place on campus you love?
Our Turtle Garden. In addition to the 15 turtles living it in, we are currently watching a pumpkin patch come to life within its walls.
What is something your students do that makes you proud?
Every day, I see character traits that make me proud. Students helping students, students working hard, students volunteering their time to our various committees and clubs, etc. It makes my heart happy to know we had a part in helping create such positive leaders.
What do you enjoy most about leading your school?
I can't possibly narrow that down to one thing. I thoroughly enjoy too many parts:
1. Building relationships with students, families, and the staff.
2. Ensuring that students get all the opportunities they need to be successful.
3. Seeing all the pieces of the puzzle working together to make a beautiful picture.
