Pathways Elementary celebrates its principal with craft and song

Students show appreciation for their principal, Gregory Schwartz, in his first year.

By Jarleene Almenas
| 4:40 p.m. May 2, 2018

Pathways Elementary Principal Gregory Schwartz smiles with Joan Wheeler's pre-K class on May 2. Photo by Jarleene Almenas

Pathways Elementary Principal Gregory Schwartz high-fives Joan Wheeler's pre-K students on May 2. Photo by Jarleene Almenas

Joan Wheeler's pre-K class at Pathways Elementary sing a song to recognize their principal, Gregory Schwartz, on May 2. Photo by Jarleene Almenas

Pathways Elementary Principal Greg Schwartz listens as Joan Wheeler's pre-K class sings him a song on May 2. Photo by Jarleene Almenas

Ormond Beach Observer
Neighbors

Pathways Elementary Principal Gregory Schwartz received quite a surprise when he arrived at school on Wednesday, May 2.

Outside his window, school staff had arranged a special display on the school's lawn: colorful letters spelling "Happy Principals Day" adorned with fun shapes. Having just graduated from his principal interim program the night before, the recognition was like a celebration of his first year at Pathways.

"This school is an amazing place," Schwartz said. "We call it Patriot Paradise and it truly is. The students, the staff, the parents — I'm a lucky guy to be here."

Schwartz, who was promoted to principal in July of 2017, received cards and signs from students throughout the day. In the morning, Joan Wheeler's pre-K class paid him a visit to sing him a song and gift him with personalized cards. It's an example of the relationship he's been cultivating for the past year.

"The biggest piece is you want to build a relationship with the people in the school, and so that's my goal," Schwartz said.