Upstate Parent's 2024 Educators Who Make A Difference: Ronda Simmons
Principal, Thomas E. Kerns Elementary
Ronda Simmons is creating a legacy of literacy.
After 33 years in education and in her fifth year as principal of Thomas E. Kerns Elementary, Simmons knows the power of books. She is committed to making sure students have access to them and can cultivate a love of reading.
Want More? CLICK HERE to return to 2024 Educators Who Make a Difference main page
“One major initiative at Thomas E. Kerns Elementary School has been utilizing our resources to establish home libraries for our students,” she said. “We firmly believe in the transformative power of reading, which serves as the gateway to a vast world of knowledge and understanding. Our goal is to fully immerse our students in the realm of literacy, fostering a lifelong love for reading.”
Throughout her career, Simmons was named Teacher of the Year twice and PTA Teacher of the Year twice in Dorchester School District Four. In Greenville County, she was recognized as the Greenville County Palmetto Literacy Association Distinguished Administrator and runner-up for Palmetto State Literacy Association Administrator of the Year. But the accolades are only part of the equation.
“It is definitely a calling,” she said. “I think what keeps me going are my students. They hold a special place in my heart. Their unconditional love is a constant source of joy for me. And the people who I work with as well – just working with some awesome educators is really rewarding for me.”
Though she hasn’t decided when she will retire, Simmons said “the countdown is ticking away rapidly.” When that day comes, she will be able to reflect on decades invested in others.
“I find immense delight in the privilege of serving my students, faculty, staff, and parents,” she said. “This opportunity to serve with compassion and love is truly a blessing, and I am deeply grateful for it. Among all, my students hold a special place in my heart, their unconditional love being a constant source of joy.”
This article originally appeared on Herald-Journal: Upstate Parent's 2024 Educators Who Make A Difference: Ronda Simmons
