Rebuilding trust was at the top of Kelly Flora’s list when she became the principal of Nags Head Elementary School in 2021 on the heels of the COVID-19 pandemic and as the school’s third principal in three years.
Instead of classroom observations being a one-way critique session, she turned them into catalysts for professional dialogue. Staff members volunteer to lead professional development sessions during monthly staff meetings, and Pelican Pop-Ups offer opportunities for them to share expertise with their colleagues. A leadership team, now 23 people strong, was established to work as an idea engine and problem-solving hub.
This collaborative approach extends to how staff members interact with students and their families. Initiatives like One School, One Author; annual Bingo Nights; and Club Days invite parents, students and staff members to engage socially and build community.
“Regular student surveys, parent communications, parent surveys and community involvement allow us to create an environment where students feel respected, supported and empowered,” Flora said. “By distributing leadership, fostering transparent communication and intentionally engaging staff, students and families, we have transformed our school culture into one of trust, collaboration and shared ownership.”
Flora’s work is paying off. Nags Head Elementary’s growth and performance scores on end-of-grade assessments went up in the 2024-25 academic year for the first time since the pandemic. The school also narrowed its achievement gaps and exceeded local and state expectations.
But just as important, said Dare County Schools Superintendent Stephen Basnight, is the change in school culture. Flora’s clear vision and intentional systems improvements have resulted in increased community engagement and higher staff retention.
“When Mrs. Flora assumed the principalship, Nags Head Elementary faced significant challenges in both performance and morale,” Basnight wrote in a letter of recommendation for Flora’s Principal of the Year application. “Under her leadership, Nags Head Elementary has experienced a remarkable transformation – one grounded in data-driven decision-making, collaboration and compassion.”