Position: Assistant Principal
School: Jefferson Elementary School
School District: Fargo Public Schools
City, State: Fargo, ND
Shallyn Fontana was nominated by anonymously.
Ms. Fontana embodies dedication, compassion, and commitment. She is always focused on the well-being and success of students and staff.
"One of Shallyn's most outstanding qualities is her dedication to students. She is selfless and often goes above and beyond to ensure every child feels supported, valued, and empowered to succeed. Shallyn takes the time to understand their individual needs and challenges, offering a listening ear and a compassionate heart to guide them through difficult times," shared the nominator.
Ms. Fontana's impact extends far beyond her interactions with students. She is a beacon of support and encouragement for staff, consistently providing guidance, mentorship, and support to ensure their success. Ms. Fontana fosters a culture of collaboration and inclusivity, empowering each team member to thrive and excel in their roles.
As a leader, Ms. Fontana exemplifies integrity, empathy, and resilience. She leads by example, demonstrating a commitment to the school and her district's mission and values. Her ability to communicate effectively, solve problems efficiently, and inspire others to action sets her apart as an exceptional leader in the school.
In addition to her outstanding leadership qualities, Ms. Fontana has a remarkable ability to foster a positive and nurturing environment where students and staff feel valued, respected, and supported. Her ability to connect with others personally cultivates a sense of belonging and unity within our school community. Ms. Fontana is very easy to talk to and easygoing. She can often lighten the mood and make people laugh. If a staff member is having an issue, she is someone they feel comfortable going to.
Ms. Fontana has created a leadership program for 5th-grade students and is constantly developing ideas for improving the school. She also helps streamline different systems to make them more efficient and smooth.
When responding to even the most heightened behaviors, Ms. Fontana is calm, level-headed, and fair. She always comes into the situation with an open mind. Ms. Fontana makes sure to ask questions, provide feedback, and be calm.
Ms. Fontana's profound influence and dedication have transformed our school community into a place of inspiration, growth, and empowerment. Her remarkable leadership serves excellence for both students and staff alike.
"It is with great honor and admiration that I nominate Shallyn as a LifeChanger, recognizing her commitment to the success and well-being of all who walk through the halls of Jefferson Elementary," stated the nominator.