LifeChanger of the Year Nominee Profile
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Joan Pierre-Jerome
Position: Principal
School: J. C. Mitchell Elementary School
School District: Palm Beach County School District
City, State: Boca Raton, FL
Joan Pierre-Jerome was nominated by her colleague Manuel Levine.
Dr. Pierre-Jerome, also known as "Dr. PJ," is an amazing educator. She leads a school that serves students in grades Pre-K through 5, including ESE. Her school has a very diverse student population. The majority of the students are from a low socioeconomic group. A large percentage are non-native English speakers who are beginning to learn English.
Dr. PJ has been the principal for the past several years. During that time, she has radiated a passion and love for education that's reflected in her administrative style. Dr. PJ is a hands-on administrator. She totally immerses herself in the daily operations of the school. She is always on the car line in the morning, greeting the students and parents. Then, she runs to the media center to motivate the students and staff on the morning news. At lunch, she relates to students as she performs lunch duty. In addition, she distributes boxes of food to students' families who are in need.
Dr. PJ is a beloved administrator. She productively supports, encourages, and collaborates with her teachers and staff. She offers sound advice that undoubtedly enhances instruction and staff morale, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic, when teachers were required to teach in person and virtually, and were under great stress. The students' families also embrace Dr. PJ. She is proactive in enhancing the total school environment. Dr. PJ builds a sense of community and establishes norms and routines that are evident, whether she is present or not. She is an extremely nurturing, loving school leader. She always acknowledges individuality and purposefully addresses the needs of all students and staff.
"In my 42 years as a teacher at J.C. Mitchell Elementary, I have never worked for an administrator as exceptional as Dr. PJ," said Levine. "She impacts the lives of the students and staff like no other. I am wholeheartedly convinced that she deserves this honor. I am inspired by Dr. PJ and in awe of her talents."