Flexible, open-minded and adaptable are three qualities the new principal and assistant principal at Glen Oaks School cite as ingredients for continuing to build a culture of fun and success with both students and staff.
Farah Daoud (right in photo), who spent last year as assistant principal at the Hickory Hills’ school, was named principal replacing Dr. Carla Braun, and Emily Betts, who spent last year as the Dorn School team leader and, more recently, as this year’s summer school coordinator, was named assistant principal.
During a recent interview at the school (which just happened to be their first day working together), this dynamic duo spoke of how excited they both were to join forces and build on an already amazing team.
“We’re really excited to work together,” Mrs. Daoud said. “Keeping students (and staff) in the forefront is our main objective and we’ll work to do that by making sure students are supported in their learning while making sure teachers and staff have the tools and knowledge they need to be the most successful they can.”
“The goal is to continue the amazing work with our great staff,” she said.
Glen Oaks, which is the recipient of two National Blue Ribbon Awards (the highest honor a school can receive), was recognized last month as a Model Professional Learning Community. PLCs are some of the highest-performing schools around the globe. To qualify as a Model PLC, a school must: Demonstrate a commitment to PLC at Work® concepts: Implement those concepts for at least three years and present clear evidence of improved student learning.
Mrs. Betts said she is excited for her new role and “interacting with all the new students, staff and families.” She said she is looking forward to following the progress of her students coming in from Dorn over the next few years.
“Serving as team leader was helpful in learning the dynamics and roles within a school, giving me great perspectives into all the different components that work together to ensure student success,” she said. “Change excites me and I’m ready to begin working with a new team and tackle any challenges we face - together.”
“I’m looking forward to working with all these great personalities to continue building on an already great school community.”
Mrs. Daoud and her husband Mohammad reside in Westmont with their 8-month-old daughter Lara. Mrs. Betts resides in Orand Park with her husband Nick and their two daughters, Teresa, 8 and Brooke, 6.