Taking the Reins at Holly Tree During the Pandemic

Taking over as principal is always a big undertaking. The challenge was magnified for Holly Tree principal, Steve Moore, who stepped into the role in the midst of the pandemic. With twenty-three years of educational experience under his belt, Mr. Moore has established a school, been an Assistant Principal, and taught in both Wake and Brunswick Counties.  This past summer, he returned to Wilmington, where he received his degree in Elementary Education from the University of North Carolina at Wilmington. Through all the challenges presented by the pandemic this year, Mr. Moore says that it’s his team that is making the year a success.

 

Replacing a principal who had led the school for 18 years, Mr. Moore knew right away that Holly Tree already had a strong culture and climate. He felt it was his job to respect and honor that culture.  Over the summer, Moore worked to build connections with staff and the Holly Tree community. He set time aside for Zoom conferencing to provide support to 75 families who were about to change schools due to redistricting. He prepared class lists and organized the students for socially distance learning.  And as if the pandemic wasn’t enough, he navigated the disruption of Hurricane Isaias just as the school year was getting started. 

 

Many of Principal Moore’s first year challenges have been unique to COVID. Some students struggled with the new limitations created by social distancing. Students wanted to be able to hug and high-five their teachers and peers, but with safety measures in place and six feet of distance required, they were unable to do so. In addition to student feelings of isolation, Mr. Moore had to manage staff and student absences due to quarantine. 

 

“At one point, a grade level was down three teachers.” says Mr. Moore. “No one was picking up the sub jobs.” 

 

The cooperation of the Holly Tree team, both the students and staff, kept the school on track. “My staff is remarkable,  knowledgeable, and team players,” says Mr. Moore. “From the teacher assistants to the office administration, everyone pitched in to help with classroom coverage.”

 

 

Mr. Moore has been able to improve student proficiency levels and continues to cultivate a  learning environment, in person and in remote learning, for all students. And when the pandemic leaves him short on teachers, Mr. Moore can be found in the classroom supporting his staff and filling in wherever he’s needed.

 

“Each person is unique, but we all collectively are here for Holly Tree,” says Principal Moore. We’re, here for the kids, and ultimately, here for public education.”