“Teamwork mentality” — these are the words Kelly Makepeace uses to describe how she will focus on the coming school year as principal of John Small Elementary School.

“And as long as we stay student centered, we are going to be successful,” she explained.

Makepeace, most recently an assistant principal at Eastern Elementary School in Washington, takes the reins at John Small Elementary School for the 2016-2017 school year.

She began her career in Edgecombe County in 2006, following graduation from East Carolina University. After a time in Pitt County, Makepeace joined Beaufort County Schools as a Principal Fellow, dividing her time between Chocowinity Primary School and P.S. Jones Middle School. She was hired as an assistant principal at P.S. Jones Middle School in 2013, where she remained until completing the last school year as an assistant principal at Eastern Elementary School.

“All these experiences provide me the ability to reach different kids,” Makepeace said.

Having taught kindergarten through fifth grade and having the middle school administrative experience, Makepeace is prepared to reach a vast variety of children — a skill that will be important in the district’s most diverse attendance area.

“I am really excited about getting back to elementary grades,” she said. “Fourth grade was my favorite grade to teach, and I understand the curriculum.”

Makepeace said she loves coming into a new place and bringing new ideas.

In 2013, she completed her master’s degree in administration, curriculum and instruction from East Carolina University. While there, Makepeace also completed undergraduate work, receiving a bachelor’s degree in elementary education in 2006.

“We are excited to have Kelly in this position at John Small Elementary School,” said Dr. Don Phipps, superintendent of Beaufort County Schools. “Her passion for the grade levels at this school combined with the priority she places on working as a team will help pave the way for a great year at John Small.”

For the John Small Elementary School team, Makepeace has the utmost respect for every position within the school. She knows the value of respect, and knows that can be a game changer.

“When you feel respected, you are going to work hard,” she said.

When asked what she wanted John Small Elementary School parents to know about her, the response was simple: “My door is always open. I am always going to do what is right by the children, and I will expect no less from the staff.”