Drew Model School is looking forward to newly-appointed principal Cheryl Relford’s first year. Relford began her career as a teacher in Ohio. She most recently held the position of assistant principal at Tuckahoe Elementary School.
What are you looking forward to most about being principal at Drew?
I look forward to working closely with the students, staff, parents and community members of Drew Model School. I believe that fostering positive relationships is essential to student achievement. I have been embraced by all stakeholders, and I am excited and happy to be the principal of a school with a neighborhood and countywide community committed to educating all children.
What atre some new programs or changes you plan to implement at Drew?
As a new Principal, I will collaborate with all parties involved to determine which programs have or have not benefited our students. We will continue to use the programs that we deem effective and make necessary adjustments and/or changes as needed in other areas. We have decided to expand our enrichment program and our homework club. Both programs are scheduled to begin in early fall and run through late spring.
What did you find most appealing about Drew to help you decide to accept the position of principal?
Every school is special and unique. Drew Model School was most appealing to me because of the population of students it serves. We are a countywide and neighborhood school offering two instructional approaches to learning (Graded and Montessori) which cater to the individual learning styles of our students. Seven years ago, I started researching the elementary schools in Arlington. Drew Model School was at the top of my list, and I am overwhelmed with such joy that Drew Model School chose me. We are going to have an awesome school year.
What do you see as the biggest challenge in being a principal?
As a principal, you come in contact with a lot of people. Every person wants what is best for his/her child, grandchild or family member. I constantly remind myself that parents and grandparents are entrusting their children to us daily, and it is my duty and responsibility to work closely with staff to ensure that optimal learning is taking place for all of our children.
What do you like best about being a part of the school system?
Educating and making a difference in the lives of children. As an instructional leader, I am in a better position to help make decisions that can positively impact our students and their overall achievement. There is nothing else better than that.
How many years of teaching experience do you have?
I have eight years of teaching experience ranging from kindergarten to third grade. I also served as an assistant principal for three years.
What do you feel is the most significant lesson you've learned during your tenure?
All children can learn. Each child may need or require a different instructional strategy and/or approach to learning. However, every child can learn just at varied paces.
How and when did you become interested in teaching and being part of the school system?
I started working with children at a very young age and all the way through college. I babysat, tutored children during the summer, and assisted and later directed a summer tutorial camp. I've always felt like this is what I was put here to do. Teaching and educating children just feels so natural for me.
When did you move to Arlington?
I moved the Washington, DC area in 1996, and I have lived in Arlington for about seven years.
Why did you move to Arlington?
When I graduated from college, I had friends in the area, and they kept encouraging me to relocate to the DC area. I made a few visits and loved it, and I've been here ever since.
What is your favorite thing about Arlington?
I grew up in a small town in Ohio, and to me, Arlington is a small county very similar to the area where I grew up. I love the small town feeling I get by being here, and at the same time, the big city is not too far away.