To celebrate National Principals Month, we sat down with Atlas' Head of School, Ms. Tierrus Tucker, to learn a little bit more about what inspired her to become a principal and what she likes best about the job. As one of our founding team members, Ms. Tucker has been a vital asset to our school community for the past 5 years. Keep reading to learn a little bit more about Ms. Tucker!
Q: Who was your favorite teacher growing up and why?
A: My favorite teacher was my 4th grade teacher Ms. Poslosky at Shenandoah Valley. She was a safe space for me. She had a way of making children believe that were capable of achieving anything. I grew academically, found my voice, and came into my personality.
Q: What kinds of activities were you involved in while growing up?
A: In high school I ran track (a captain senior year), I was a member of the step team “high steppers”, and a delegate on student council.
Q: What were your favorite subjects in school?
A: In elementary school it was math and in middle school it became ELA.
Q: What is the funniest thing that has happened to you on the job?
A: This stumped me! There are so many stories that it's hard to narrow down one specific event. PreK and Kindergarten are a never ending episode of kids saying the darnedest things. PreK and Kdg are always giving hugs and compliments at the most random times, but as though they can sense that you needed it.
Funniest or cutest story that sticks out for me is the first time one of my young friends heard a student who was non-verbal when he started with us speak. Both boys were in the same class the year prior and had become the best of friends. One of them was assisting Mr. Jeff with breakfast in his buddy's class when out of nowhere, his buddy said, "Hi." My friend then started to yell repeatedly and excitedly, "He speaks! He speaks!"
Thank you, Ms. Tucker, for all that you do for every member of our school community! We can't imagine Atlas without you!