Mrs. April Braswell

Principal of Whitehead Road Elementary School

Provide a quote that inspires your work. "Education is the most powerful weapon you can use to change the world."-Nelson Mandela

Before joining Whitehead, what positions did you hold? I started my career as a high school math teacher at Cedar Shoals High School before moving to Walton County. I taught high school math for 13 years before joining W. R. Coile Middle School as assistant principal. I remained in this position for four years before becoming principal of Whitehead.

What is your favorite part about being a principal? One of the biggest pleasures for me as a principal has been seeing the excitement and joy on the faces of both the children and adults on a daily basis. I have enjoyed receiving hugs from children and even a hug or two from teachers! I love seeing happy children who know that I love them and know I am happy to see them learning and growing at Whitehead.

My favorite children's book is Because of Winn Dixie by Kate DiCamillo. I remember reading this book with my daughter when she was in the third grade. It is such a great book about friendship, forgiveness, perserverance and tenacity. My daughter is now 22 years old and she still remembers this book and the time we spent together reading it.

What school(s) did you attend and what degree(s) did you earn? After high school, I attended Valdosta State University where I earned two degrees (B.S. in Mathematics and B.S. Secondary Education: Math). I continued my studies at Columbus State University to earn a Master's Degree in Educational Leadership. Next, I joined Georgia College and State University and earned a Specialist degree in Educational Leadership. I am currently completing my Doctorate degree in Curriculum and Instruction at GCSU.

A leader that I admire is definitely Michelle Obama. She is such a role model who defies the odds, handles conflict and opposition with grace, and strives to make the world a better place, all while keeping a smile on her face. Her energy and spirit to help, encourage and motivate women inspires me to push harder to make an impact on the lives of those I enounter on a daily basis.

When I was growing up I wanted to be a veterinarian. I absolutely love animals. Growing up on a farm, I always enjoyed animals. It is a blessing to have experienced the life of a true farm girl. I currently have a dog named Rambo and a rabbit named Bellar.

If I could have a cup of coffee with any of my former teachers, it would be my kindergarten teacher, Mrs. Tomblin. She made such an impression on me and made sure I felt safe, loved, and supported while in her care. I will never forget her love and encouragement to be the best person I could be. She believed in every child in her class and made sure everyone was successful. She was amazing!

What are your goals as principal of Whitehead? I want to create a pathway that allows all children to be able to learn and grow, so that they may become anything they set their minds to become. I want to ensure that my staff have the tools and resources needed for this task. I want my staff and students to have a clear vision of their future and understand what it takes to get there.

My favorite vacation spot is anywhere hot and tropical. I love the tropics and the great foods they offer. My first time visiting San Juan, Puerto Rico was a dream come true. I enjoyed the warm weather, the delicious fruit and the beautiful beaches. This may become my new home when I reach retirement.

My favorite past time activity is online shopping. My husband calls me the Amazon Queen because of the sheer number of things I find myself ordering from Amazon. Online shopping is so convenient and easy. I definitely spend more money shopping online than I would if I visited a store. Maybe I need to rethink my past time activity!