Sonya Clark knew she wanted to be an educator before most children knew what they wanted to be when they grew up.
As a kindergartner, her teacher, Mrs. Stevens, invited her to help classmates who needed extra support. Clark loved it so much that she returned to that same classroom every year through elementary school to help younger students. What began as a simple act of encouragement became the foundation of a 26-year career dedicated to helping others succeed.
Now, as principal of Spring Woods Middle School (SWMS), Clark is bringing that same passion for serving students and supporting educators to the campus community.
"Education was the cornerstone of my life," Clark said. "My mother taught me that education was the key to unlocking my future, and I have dedicated my career to helping open those same doors for others."
Throughout her career as a teacher, district instructional coach, assistant principal and associate principal, Clark has focused on building the capacity of teachers, removing barriers for students and creating opportunities for every child to succeed.
She believes great schools are built on high expectations paired with strong support. This school year, Clark's goal is to create a school where every student, staff member and family feels connected, supported and empowered to achieve at high levels.
"I am excited to join the Spring Woods community because I believe that doing what's best for kids takes all of us," Clark said. "Together, we will build a culture where every student is empowered to achieve great things."
Outside of school, Clark enjoys traveling the world and spending quality time with family and friends. Her leadership style is rooted in meeting people where they are, listening first and working together to help every student succeed.
For Clark, leadership is about building the capacity of others so they can create lasting opportunities for the students they serve.