Welcome all Riverwood Rams!

I am so excited to be serving you in my role as Principal. This is my 29th year in education and I am humbled and elated to spend this next year with you all. I was a Science teacher for 20 years and actually worked here at Riverwood as a Science lab teacher several years ago. I have experience teaching Science, Math, Social Studies and ELA in both Elementary and Middle School. I served as an Assistant Principal at both the Middle and Elementary level and have more than 7 years' experience in administration. My own children both attended Riverwood and I have a huge love for this school, the staff, the community and especially the children, who are the pride and joy. My son is a Sophomore at NC State and my daughter is going into her third year at UNC Chapel Hill. My husband is also an educator and currently teaches Social Studies at Corinth Holders HS. I see myself as a servant leader and a lover of learning. My role is to make sure all students are safe and can grow academically and socially. I take my job very seriously and I have a huge heart and passion for education and Johnston County Public Schools.

In my personal life, I love to travel with my family and spend as much time in nature as I can. I am still a Science teacher at heart and love taking tons of wildlife pictures. I love all living things, and have an especially unusual love for bees, spiders and snakes. I love to explore and learn every day and hope to share that passion with some of you throughout our time together. I believe learning should be an engaging experience that elicits curiosity and passion, no matter what age you are.

I am grateful for this opportunity and thank you for entrusting me with the children and bigger Riverwood Family.

Hello Riverwood Rams!

I am thrilled to join the Riverwood Elementary School family as your new Assistant Principal. I have spent the past 25 years in Wake County as an educator and school leader-14 years as a Visual Arts teacher and the past 11 as an assistant principal. I earned my K–12 North Carolina Art Certification from Meredith College and my Master of School Administration from East Carolina University. 

Throughout my career, I have been committed to ensuring that every student has access to safe, engaging and supportive learning experiences. My passion lies in building strong relationships with students, staff, and families, and in creating a school culture where curiosity, collaboration, and kindness thrive. I look forward to working alongside Mrs. Pawlak and our talented team to support Riverwood’s tradition of excellence and to help every student grow both academically and socially. 

When I’m not at school, I love spending time with my husband in the beautiful NC mountains and beaches, making arts & crafts, playing board games with my two adult children, and reading stories – especially about cats!

I’m excited to join you in building on Riverwood’s tradition of excellence and strong community spirit!