AMAZING ACHIEVERS

Introducing Maplewood’s New Principal, Michele Roberts

Submitted by Maggie DePalma’s 3rd Grade Class, Shawnee Maplewood Intermediate School

Mrs. DePalma’s 3rd grade class took the time to interview the new principal of Maplewood, Mrs. Roberts, in order to get to know her a little better! We hope you enjoy getting to know her as much as we did!

Where did you work before coming to Maplewood?

I have had many jobs. I was even once a wildland firefighter in Washington State. I taught 5th, 6th. 7th, and 8th grade reading/language arts . Most recently I was the assistant principal at Napoleon Jr./Sr High School.

Where did you go to school in 3rd and 4th grade?

I grew up in Bakersfield. California. I went to Pioneer Drive Elementary. My third grade teacher was Mrs. Baker and my 4th grade teacher was Mrs. Geddes. I remember that I loved playing on the bars and writing stories with my friends.

Why did you want a job at Maplewood?

I had heard so many great things about the school and the Shawnee district. I heard the staff, students, and families here were terrific and now that I have been here for a bit, I agree!

Tell us about your family…

I have been married for 12 years and we have three children. I have a junior in highschool named Brent and 2nd grade twin boys named James and Owen. We have two dogs-Biscuit and Nutter Butter. We also have two cats-Kitness and Mini Kitty.

What do you like to do in your free time?

I love to travel and stay in hotels. I love going to festivals and hanging out with my family. I like to read and write and learn new things. Right now I am learning Spanish.

Do you have any hidden talents?

I am a very good roller skater. I once tried out for the Glass City Roller Derby team and made it!

Do you live in Lima?

No, I live in the country in Henry County.

What is something that you are proud of?

I am very proud of my children. They are kind and generous people. I am also proud of myself for working hard and becoming a principal.

What are some of your favorite things?

I love unique animals, like the Komodo Dragon and Axolotl. I gave up soda and now I love Gatorade Zero. I love visiting Portland, Oregon where I lived for a long time. I love going to most restaurants!

What is your favorite thing about working at Maplewood so far?

So far I love the people! The students, staff, and families have been very welcoming and third and fourth graders are so much fun!

What is the most difficult part of your job?

The most difficult part of my job is making sure that everyone at school is getting what they need to learn and teach and feel great about being at school! But that is also the most important part of my job as well.

Who was one of your favorite teachers and why?

Mrs. Hess, my 7th grade language arts teacher, was my favorite. I loved her class because we did fun projects like a radio play and a stage play. I remember learning about Helen Keller and how to take notes.

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Top Row: Louden Modschiedler, Olivia Burns, Xadyn Dunn, Joelynn Schafer, Mia Kelley, Mrs. Roberts, Olivia Howard, Caleb Swick, Wyatt MacDonald, Myla Gonzalez, Mrs. DePalma Bottom Row: Nathan Diaz, Madilyn Betts, Chloe Newland, Donovan Makley, Anita Chrisman, Dalton Hunsaker, Kade McGreevy, Ethan Etzkorn

What have you noticed about the staff at Maplewood?

The staff and students have a culture of excellence where trying your best is expected and celebrated. I have also noticed that the people in this school are very kind.

Do you have homework?

I do have some homework. I also make sure to spend time with my family to “recharge.”

What is your goal for Maplewood?

My goal is that every person in the building will grow professionally and academically.

If you had to tell a student three things to be successful in school, what would it be?

1. Find the things you love to do and practice, practice, practice. 2. You will often get out of school (and life) what you put in - work hard and be positive. 3. Don’t be afraid to try new things - don’t be afraid to make mistakes - that’s how we learn.