Novel Bond

Before becoming principal at Dewitt Elementary, the fresh out of college teacher took on the task of primary teacher at the school. Kindergarten, first, and third grade - he was the lead learner of the class before the chief learner of the school.

For the past three years as principal, Mr. Bond has seen growth in the students at Dewitt. One his proudest moments, so far, has been becoming a Four-Star school and achieving a top ten growth rate for the state of KY based on 2019 KPREP scores.

Test scores aside, Mr. Bond says that one of most enjoyable parts of being a principal is "watching both students and staff as they learn, grow, and enjoy school."

When asked about who inspired him as a student, Mr. Bond quickly recalled two teachers from Knox Central. He shares about them below:

"Two teachers who have had a lasting impact on me are Mrs. Lana Sowders and Mrs. Melody Middleton. Both made me realize what an impact a caring teacher can have on their students. They believed in me and always pushed me to do my best. Both of these ladies would call me out every time I was slacking, and I greatly appreciate that now. They held high expectations for each student that entered their classroom."

Moving from kindergarten to principal was not accomplished in one year. For those teachers that are looking to grow professionally in education, Mr. Bond suggests that they set goals. "Arrive early, maintain a growth mindset, become a leader among your peers, be eager to coach extracurriculars, and adaptive to up and coming ideas in education."

What is his own professional goal for this year, with the uncertainty of COVID-19 and different modes of learning? "To ensure the safety of my students and staff without sacrificing their education. "

Mr. Bond hopes that his students see the same rewarding benefits of being a teacher when they grow up. "Teaching is about making a difference in the lives of children. Students considering a major in education should focus most on the outcome rather than the income. Being an educator is not an easy profession, but a very rewarding one. "

When he is not seen walking the halls of Dewitt Elementary, he can be seen outside trail riding and showing Tennessee Walking and Racking horses.