“If your actions inspire others to dream more, learn more, do more and become more, you are a leader.” ~ John Quincy Adams
Dr. Cheryl Frazier is making a daily difference. This series of interviews features people who unabashedly exhibit greatness and prominence within their field. They exude special characteristics their work community celebrates. Dr. Cheryl Frazier is someone beloved and cherished who expresses her personal and professional mottos of leadership through compassion. Ask the students, staff and parents of Bolton Elementary and they will loudly concede that Dr. Frazier is the epitome of someone who is a true person of prominence. We conclude this series of interviews with Dr. Frazier’s story to showcase her important work in the oftentimes under-celebrated field of child education.
Tell us about where you grew up and if any events or situations informed your love of education.
I grew up in a small town in Northern New Jersey. I attended Catholic schools there. I have two siblings that are 12 and 14 years younger than me. Watching them grow and evolve and to watch their educational journey inspired me. It was working with them and volunteering during their early years that had a great impact on me! Growing up, I loved reading and learning. I taught 1st grade in NJ for eight years prior to moving to NC.
Speak about your journey within the WS/FCS (Winston-Salem Forsyth County Schools) system that led you to your current position.
I relocated to NC in 1997. My first job in WS/FCS was as a second grade teacher at North Hills Elementary the year it opened. From there, I was the Curriculum Coordinator at Diggs Elementary in 2000. I became the Assistant Principal at Diggs in 2006 and then at Diggs-Latham the year the schools merged in 2009. In 2015, I became principal at Bolton Elementary, my current role.
What are your daily pursuits as the leader of a first rate elementary school?
My daily pursuit as the principal of Bolton has been to create and nurture an environment where students/scholars, staff and families know that they are valued and supported. I spend time making sure that I monitor instruction and student progress. I spend a lot of time nurturing collaboration and trust through my presence and consistency
What are your personal mottos as you tackle the full itinerary at your school?
My first year at Bolton, I was inspired by the driving thought to “Dream Big!” I believe that when we have something in our sight and we dream big, everything we do and say needs to align with that vision/goal. As I look back over my time at Bolton, one phrase sticks with me – “Love Leads Here!” Every day is a journey of love that inspires and supports growth and development.
What do the children need most from a principal, and what does the staff need most?
Children and staff both need unwavering support, encouragement and a person who sees how far they can go and is willing to do what’s necessary for them to get there!
Any personal anecdotes as an educator or administrator that are causes for celebration?
I love to celebrate all our small wins! Every day, before leaving school, I reflect on the small wins for that day! As part of our morning announcements, we invite scholars, teachers, school staff and families to submit shout outs that will be encouraging and that remind us that we work and learn with amazing people who celebrate even the smallest win.
What do you wish the public would recognize when considering the countless ways educators make a difference?
I wish our community knew that progress is happening – even if it’s not always visible at first. Growth in math and reading, confidence, attendance and character doesn’t always show on the first day we begin, but it’s happening quietly, steadily and meaningfully. I wish they knew how much community support means to schools. The community’s partnership matters. Volunteers, mentors, business partners and families strengthen the work. At Bolton, we are incredibly grateful to our business partners. They have been a phenomenal source of encouragement and support!
What can parents do to support their schools and their children’s teachers?
Families can help by placing extra emphasis on reading outside of school. This is an essential key to school and career success.
What constitutes a great day at your school for you?
A good day at Bolton is when I walk into classrooms and see students thinking, trying, questioning and growing. The focus isn’t on perfection – it’s on progress. I love to see and feel the learning happening. A good day includes moments of connection – a teacher teaming up with a colleague, a student helping another, a student or adult expressing gratitude, or a leader and teacher solving a problem together. Students learned, teachers felt supported and I led with heart…that’s a truly phenomenal day!
