“Neighbors helping to create a Clean, Safe, and Enjoyable Neighborhood”

- 4 - Meadowlark October 2020

### Interview with Mrs. Pamela Johnson, Principal of Falling Creek Elementary School

by Tyla Matteson, MECA Programs and Outreach As residents of MECA, we are happy to learn about this wonderful school located so close to us. Mrs. Johnson is a terrific leader for her young students. This interview brings us closer to understanding some of the challenges and achievements that occur every day at Falling Creek ES. We hope to find ways to support the amazing programs there and to continue to be good neighbors. If you are able to personally help with mentoring, tutoring, or other assistance, contact information is listed at the end of the interview. 1. Please tell us about yourself - where you are from, what schools you attended, and how long you have been principal at Falling Creek Elementary School. I am from Richmond and attended elementary through high school in RIchmond Public Schools. I went to undergrad at Morgan State University in Baltimore Maryland. I received a Masters in Administration and Supervision at Virginia Commonwealth University. I am married with one son. I have been principal at Falling Creek Elementary for 12 years. 2. You were listed by the National Association of Elementary School Principals as one of the National Distinguished Principals. I was very shocked and honored to be selected as Viriginia’s 2015 National Distinguished Principal. I was nominated by someone on our staff which is an honor in itself. I went through a series of interviews and a school visit to be selected by the committee. As the instructional leader of Falling Creek Elementary, I am directly responsible for maintaining a safe and positive environment that supports teaching and learning. In order for us all to keep our students learning, the main focus is to make sure you are listening to your teachers, students, and parents. You have to know when and how to implement new things, how to present them, and grant teachers ownership in what they are asked to do from day to day. I feel I have a great relationship with our staff and parents because they know I put our `children first’. They know my passion is for our students to always learn and to be happy but especially when they are within the walls of Falling Creek Elementary. I empower our staff to lead, to share their knowledge, and to always learn more. I also feel it is therapeutic to have laughter in our workplace. Laughter helps everyone to feel comfortable and adds a sense of trust inspiring us all to think outside the box. We have done more than the strategies listed however they are things that have been effective for us here at Falling Creek Elementary. It is my belief that we must first make sure we continuously educate ourselves to know best practices, improve our craft of delivering our lessons, and know how to reach the different learning styles of those who enter our

## Edgemere Median Changes by Paul Sisson

The Board of Meadowbrook Estates Civic Association (MECA) is currently considering a plan to improve the median on Edgemere Boulevard. The median on Edgemere Boulevard is currently owned and maintained by Meadowbrook Estates Civic Association. Various proposals have been put forth and discussed to reduce maintenance costs on the median and improve its appearance and usefulness. Recently the board has discussed improvements to include a sitting area. This could include a paved area containing park benches surrounded by garden beds. A memorial to veterans from the area who have sacrificed for us, is being considered. This may also include a covered ‘gazebo’ structure to provide a covered sitting area. This would be a benefit to the many walkers who frequently use the boulevard. We are also seeking a grant from the Dupont company to help fund these improvements to the Edgemere median. The Board of Meadowbrook Estates Civic Association board is currently asking for any community response on these suggestions. Any comments, both positive and negative, are encouraged. I am specifically asking the members who live on Edgemere Boulevard if they support these suggested improvements to the median. Please send your comments through our community website, Meadowbrook Estates Civic Association at https://mbestates.org/contacts/.

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