Tekeshia Hollis — One Year Into Her New Role
By Edie Elkinson
This time last year, David T. Howard Middle School welcomed a new principal, Tekeshia Hollis, and we got to hear about her background, her goals and her life outside of school.
We reconnected — this time in person — at the start of the new year to hear how it’s been going. Principal Hollis shared some updates on the school’s enhancements, where she finds inspiration, what lies ahead and more.
What has been your greatest accomplishment at David T. Howard so far?
The transformation of the culture of the school in almost a year’s time — the environment feels more welcoming, and more like a school. When I first arrived, there was a lot of tension and anxiety that needed to be restored. You can’t physically see it, but you feel it.
Is there any difference in numbers for the faculty?
We had a large turnover from last school year to this school year. When I came here, we had nine vacancies, and since then, I hired 40 people for this school year, and I can say that our staff is passionate about what they do. We observe individually and collectively to make sure that we’re collaborating and choosing professional development based on observation.
What’s something that surprised you in the past year?
I didn’t expect students to be so excited or starstruck: “Oh, you’re the principal!” It’s a different admiration for the role than in high school. That was a shock.
What’s something that has changed in the past year that has surprised students the most?
The building looks totally different than it did in January 2023. The murals, the paint … It feels like a learning institution. When I first arrived, I was struck with all the white walls. I think the murals add to the culture.
What are the greatest challenges that the school faces?
Enrollment is definitely a challenge, and that dictates how funding is done and our ability to retain staff. I want to ensure that we maintain everything that we have currently.
What are the three things that you like the most about the community?
Well, for one, the location. Everything is here. The historical perspective and the richness of the history is awesome. I brought my grandmother back, and she was telling me what she remembered about going to the school. And the community is great. To have a conversation with the kids and feel like you’re talking to an adult with their logic is great. Also, the parents — whenever I ask for something, they show up as a community to make the students and staff feel supported.
Can you describe someone or something that has inspired you at the school so far?
The students and teachers really do inspire in different ways. Even though you’re tired and drained to start another day, their curiosity and willingness to explore with the students inspire me. Plus the fact that some of the teachers have been here for 20-plus years, serving the community. Those teachers put on a smile every day.
What’s ahead for DTH?
Right now my focus is on assessments — not necessarily testing the students, but showing mastery and growth to get back to the tradition that was in the community prior. Retention of staff is also a priority. When you have people who’ve been here 20-plus years and 40 new teachers, [the question is] can we retain the right pieces to build towards that vision? So I’m excited about the future and the opportunities to help the students learn about the past and incorporate opportunities for them to engage with the alumni. And with our location – we have all these corporations right up and down the street that you can learn a lot from and maximize those qualities.
What is the best advice you have received during your time at David T. Howard?
To give myself grace because when you were great at your previous role, you think you’re going to walk in and be a superstar and assume you know the role. With my strengths being an achiever, I have to give myself grace and not stay in that space of reflection.