In July 0f 2016, I was at an unexpected crossroads in my career. I needed to make some decisions to fit the needs of my family but I was extremely nervous about leaving my only school and starting new somewhere else. It was late July, past prime hiring time and I was nervous that I wouldn't be able to find anything. Just on a hunch, I looked at openings in Chowan and Perquimans Counties. Each K-2 school had one opening, I was sure they were old listings being that late in July. I quickly, emailed interest for the position at White Oak Elementary expecting a "sorry it has already been filled" email to follow. Instead, I got a call from HR asking if I could come the next day for an interview. In preparation for the interview, I realized SHE was the principal. That SHE that I had seen at different trainings and meetings. The SHE that wore suits, high heels, and had THAT look. I was scared to death.
I applied on Tuesday, interviewed on Wednesday, and she offered me the job on Thursday. When she called me to offer me the job. I said, "Thank you for giving me this opportunity." She replied, "There is too much of God in this situation for me not to follow his path!" All my fear and anxiety left. She has that way about her, using her one-liners to settle the score.
My best instructional experience with her during her tenure at White Oak was in March 2020. The governor had just shut schools down for 2 weeks. We met as a staff and she said, "We are only making packets for the whole school for these two weeks. We will probably be out for a while and we are NOT saying elementary students can't learn virtually. We are here to figure out how to do it." Through COVID and virtual learning, she taught me what it took to create something great out of nothing and how to lead a group of people, and for that, I will forever be grateful.
My family came to know and respect Mrs. Evans and her larger-than-life persona. One even watched Cubbie TV every day, just for her "Something to Think About". Also, they often ask
"What does Mrs. Evans think about it?" when debating educational issues. When James started as a substitute she was one of his biggest cheerleaders.
Through the years of working for her, my ears were trained to hear high heels and I am a better teacher for knowing the woman behind the suit.
Happy Retirement, Mrs. Evans..you deserve the break!
