Kristin Willis has been named principal of Bailey Elementary School effective Dec. 11. Willis’ appointment was approved at the Hillsborough County School Board’s November meeting.
She replaced former principal Scott Valdez, who led the school since 2018 but decided to return to teaching, according to the district.
Below are interview questions and Willis’ responses.
1) Before stepping into the role as principal, what other positions have you held within the District?
I was hired in 2003 as a kindergarten teacher at Boyette Springs Elementary School. I have also been a Math Coach and Assistant Principal, before being appointed Principal.
2) When did you start your career in education/how long you were in each role?
I began teaching in Hillsborough County in 2003. I taught kindergarten from 2003-2011 at Boyette Springs Elementary. I became the Math Coach at Bryan Elementary in the fall of 2011 and was there until my third child was born in December of 2016. I started in January of 2017 as the assistant principal at Bailey Elementary in Dover.
3) Where did you attend school?
I am proud to say that I am a product of the Hillsborough County Public School system.
I received my Bachelor’s degree from Florida Southern College, a Master’s in Instruction and Curriculum from USF and a Master’s in Educational Leadership from the American College of Education.
4) What do you hope to contribute to the school as principal? What are your goals?
I hope to continue to partner with staff, Bailey families and community members to provide a wonderful educational experience for our students.
Three main goals
1.) continue to build a positive school culture for students and staff
2.) create an excitement for learning
3.) ensure that students have the best learning environment possible
5) What drew you to a career in education/educational leadership?
To this day, I still get a huge smile on my face when I see one of my former teachers in town. When I think about the positive impact they had on my life, I knew I wanted to inspire young people to dream big, set goals and pursue their dreams the same way my teachers did for me.
6) Tell us one fun thing about you?
Although I am not musically inclined, I love all kinds of music! If you walk into my office, you will most likely hear music playing in the background. I play music each morning in the courtyard for the students at my school. Upbeat music helps sets a positive tone for the day.