Local Heroes: Making Students Feel Supported
GRAND JUNCTION, Colo. (KJCT) -- Many of us give our time to make our community a better place to live and raise a family. But few of us take on an entire school making them feel loved and supported. All this month, we're teaming with the Red Cross to share stories of these people who go above and beyond.
We meet a teacher gone principal who knows what it takes to cultivate a positive learning environment.
When you visit Holy Family Catholic School you can feel the love. Walking the halls with Principal Ann Ashwood, it's evident, students all want to say hello.
"Our students are terrific, just terrific young people," Ann said. "They live a culture of excellence here. The students truly enjoy learning."
Principal Ashwood knows the recipe for success, working in education for about 25 years.
Not only does she help children and teachers, she shows them understanding.
"She builds a personal relationship with every child," teacher Coni Gipson said. "She knows their name, she knows what their circumstances are, and every child just loves her so much because she shows them respect and love everyday. Even though it might be hard some days."
What's getting the soft spoken principal recognized is more than her demeanor. Gipson said she leads by example.
"Ms. Ashwood is the epitome of a hero, because she not only does one thing, she does a lot of things every single day to make the school better," Gipson said. "To help the kids reach their potential and become better human beings."
Ann is proud of her students. When she talks about them she smiles.
"I love the kids I love their families. The staff is superb. It is truly a community."
Naturally she enjoys seeing how they are doing during class.
"I try to get into classrooms kind of a walk through as often as possible for a couple of reasons. It energizes me to be with the kids, and number two so the teachers know I'm approachable."
A mother and grandmother, a former teacher, and now a principal, Ann says it's a great gig.
"It's kind of like being a mom," Ann said.
And her students love her like one.
Holy family has about 430 students. While she may not remember all their names, she's pretty good.
"Once you meet her, grace and compassion are the words that come to your mind, said Gipson. "You just want to be by her just because she is such a vibrant and caring leader."
Ms. Ashwood and several other people will be recognized at the Red Cross Hero's dinner.
It's April 30th at the Doubletree Hotel.
If you would like to buy tickets to the event, call the Red Cross at 970-242-4851.
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