JANET LEBO River Dell Elementary School A "rags to riches" story, Janet Lebo was raised with six siblings and little money for college. She obtained her undergraduate degree while working full-time and going to school. She raised her family while pursuing her academic path and professional career. As the new principal at River Dell Elementary, she is ready for the challenge and has been very impressed with the level of support received from not only the teaching staff but the PTA and Parent Advisory Committee. She and her husband Chris have two children. Their daughter, Katie, is a rising senior at East Carolina University and their son, Ryan, is attending Johnston Community College. Her commitment to parents, students, and staff is to always put children first. She wants them to know that children are cared for and she will strive to help each child grow toward their individual highest potential.
Treasure Magazine: What do you like most about the area? Janet Lebo: The small town feel; family feel; seeing people you know at the grocery store. TM: What are your first impressions of the school? JL: I love it. There's a family-like atmosphere where we all care about the kids. I immediately felt very welcome. TM: Favorite author and movie? JL: Author: Jody Picoult Movie: The Blind Side TM: What is your favorite sport and team? JL: Sport: Volleyball Team: Carolina Hurricanes TM: What is your favorite quote or words to live by? JL: People don’t care how much you know
until they know how much you care. TM: Where did you attend college and what was your major? JL: UNC Pembroke (Education); Master's from Campbell University TM: What was your favorite subject in school and why? JL: Reading. I enjoy learning about new things. I also love to teach literacy. TM: How long have you been in education? JL: Twenty-one years. TM: How did you arrive at your current position as principal? JL: I began my teaching career in Hoke County. I taught 1st grade in Cumberland County. Before I came to River Dell I worked in another Johnston County school as a teacher and worked my way up as a
curriculum instructor/administrator, assistant principal, and now as principal. TM: What makes your school unique? JL: Our STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) program. Working toward creative links between those in enhancement programs and that of the regular student body. My staff is extremely dedicated to making River Dell the best it can be. TM: What are your plans for the future development of River Dell Elementary? JL: Extend the STEM program and to raise cultural awareness.
Fall/Winter 2016 | T REASURE M AGA Z IN E | 23