“Hold the door, say please, say thank you Don’t steal, don’t cheat, and don’t lie I know you got mountains to climb but Always stay humble and kind When those dreams you’re dreamin’ come to you When the work you put in is realized Let yourself feel the pride but Always stay humble and kind” – Tim McGraw, “Humble and Kind”
To Hempfield Assistant Principal, Dr. Tiffany Bevard it’s always been about kindness, generosity, and pride. Throughout her career, Dr. Bevard has used these ideals as a foundation for creating a secure and more comfortable school environment, for both the students and staff.
On March 29th, Dr. Bevard will assume a new position as Head Principal at Ringgold Area High School. Although she will miss the atmosphere here at Hempfield, she is excited at this “amazing” opportunity in her professional career. Dr. Bevard has been a teacher and administrator at five different school districts throughout her career thus far.
Dr. Bevard was born into a large family, where education was put first and because of that she has been able to accomplish significant things in her career. Because of this, she wants students to have access to education and provide them with the resources they need in order to succeed. She also wants to make sure that teachers are involved and making a difference in students’ lives as well. During her high school career, she was very passionate about math and art, and even desired to become an art professor in the future. This quickly changed when she began both teaching and administration positions at lower economic schools. By seeing the struggles that some students had to go through, she became devoted to making a difference in the education system.
In her time here at Hempfield, Dr. Bevard had many professional responsibilities, and also developed a number of close professional and personal relationships. As she moves into her new position, there are a number of challenges facing those who called her a colleague and a friend.
For some, like her fellow principal Mr. Simon’s, this involves taking on her professional responsibilities. In Dr. Bevard’s absence, Mr. Simons will be overseeing PBIS as well as serve as the Assessment Coordinator for the Keystones. He looks forward to ensuring that this transition is a smooth one, and interacting more with the students and staff to make a similar impact on the school.
For others like Mrs. Mash, this is a more personal event. Mrs. Mash describes Dr. Bevard’s leave as not only the loss of a colleague, but the loss of a good friend. The two meshed well together, their skill sets complementing one another, in Mash’s words. She expresses that she learned a lot from their friendship, specifically when it came to student conferences and “digging deeper to find the root of student issues.” She wishes her friend nothing but the best moving forward.
The primary focus she wants to accomplish as head principal is to truly make an impact on students and to be able to provide more resources for the ones that need it. With the purpose of creating an all around better school environment, Dr. Bevard also intends to put a focus on students’ mental health. She is most excited to be able to network with other professionals and become a part of a new community. Her ultimate goal is to focus on the mental health of students and to create a safe space for them.
Upon her departure, Dr. Bevard reflects upon her years here as an assistant principal. She greatly expresses her “gratitude” towards the experiences that have “helped shape her”, both professionally and personally. By being a part of our building, Dr. Bevard has truly been shown the meaning of “belonging, service, and humanity”.
For Sophomore student Emma Sucke, Dr. Bevard has been a wonderful mentor and guide. “She always smiles in the hallway, she is understanding but also firm. She cares about our feelings – she’s really sweet.”
On her last day here, March 28th, she plans on taking with her the lessons she has learned. ‘These lessons will stay with me, as they are the foundation of what it means to be part of something greater than ourselves”, she stated. Her parting words to both the students and staff is to “always be proud to be a Spartan and always stay humble and kind.” Dr. Bevard wishes the best for everyone here at Hempfield Area Senior High School, and will cherish the memories fondly.
