Remember your early school days? Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Schools partnered with Greater Winston-Salem to do just that — give community members a firsthand experience of how public schools run. Editor Kellina had the opportunity to visit Bolton Elementary School, located right outside of the Ardmore neighborhood, as part of Principal for a Day.

Fast facts

About 60 employees
374 students
Pre-K through 5
Principal: Dr. Sheryl Frazier

What's the bus situation?

Buses drop off students on site at 8:15 a.m. Once they arrive, they are greeted by staff with a warm welcome and smiles all around. You'll see high fives here and there, hugs, and fist bumps. School Principal Frazier interacts with the kids as they enjoy their breakfast in the cafeteria.

Due to lowered school funding, some kids arrive around 9:40 a.m. while buses make their second rounds.

What's the first order of business?

Dr. Frazier makes announcements over the intercom, in which she reads the Bolton promise, which goes:
"Being proud is what we do
Having respect with an A+ attitude
Self-Control is inside of you
Responsibility is something cool
So, put forth the effort in everything you do
And it will help us achieve in school."love this inclusion

I was moved by this statement, knowing how much power words can have, and a can-do attitude goes a long way for our future generations.

Editor Kellina got to visit classrooms from Pre-K through grade 5. | Photo courtesy of Bolton Elementary school staff

What happens during class time?

Students were engaged, either in a group activity or figuring out solutions to the teacher's questions as a class. I even got to participate in a music class and play drums next to the students.

How much technology are kids exposed to?

Fifth graders receive their own Chromebook for a certain classwork assignment, which stays in the classroom. Dr. Frazier highlighted the importance of less screen time to support the students' brain development.

What about school safety?

Dr. Frazier had the key to all the classrooms, which gave her access to each room with ease. Classes are locked while in session. The halls remained empty for the most part.

Major takeaways

Dr. Frazier pointed out the unique placement of Bolton Elementary, given that it's located near the Forsyth Tech West campus and Novant Health.

Students have 45 minutes of physical education or playground time each day to encourage them to be active.

The halls were decked out with notable people like Maya Angelou, Henry T. Sampsom, Dr. George Washington Carver, and more. Dr. Frazier greeted students and teachers with enthusiasm. "We're more than just a stat," Dr. Frazier said.

It was heartwarming to see the care and support teachers and staff put forth to make sure every kid feels seen. I left feeling more inspired to do more.

How to get involved

Monetary donations are not allowed, but gift cards are appreciated as they are distributed to teachers or staff members as part of appreciation.
Write thoughtful notes for a teacher, lunch server, or the principal and drop it at the school.
Volunteer to tutor students by reaching out to a school in the district directory.
Visit schools to learn more about what goes on during the school day.