Freedom Shores Elementary School issued the following announcement on Sept. 8
The School Board recently approved Dr. Sandra Moreau-Oliver as the new principal of Pioneer Park Elementary School in Belle Glade. Dr. Moreau-Oliver replaces Pamela Buckman who recently become the principal at Beacon Cove Intermediate.
For the past six years, Dr. Moreau-Oliver served as the assistant principal at Pioneer Park Elementary with a mindset of striving for excellence and a simple motto, “be the best that you can be.” She becomes the third Haitian-American principal in the School District of Palm Beach County.
“I am humbled and honored to become principal. It is especially gratifying that it happened at Pioneer Park. When I became the assistant principal, I fell in love with the kids, the staff, and the community,” Dr. Moreau-Oliver said. “The Glades community is my second home and I am blessed to have this opportunity to continue to serve this community.”
Born in Haiti, Moreau-Oliver moved with her family to the United States at an early age, eventually settling in Miami. She graduated from Florida International University with a bachelor’s degree in Social Studies Education, and a master’s in Teacher of English as a Second Language (TESOL).
“I chose the field of education because I am passionate about helping others and motivating learners,” Moreau-Oliver said. “I believe that everyone has true talents and gifts that are yet to be discovered, and education is the key to helping someone discover their talents and gifts in order to succeed.”
Dr. Moreau-Oliver also completed leadership courses at Florida Atlantic University before earning her doctorate in Child and Youth Studies with a specialization in Administration from Nova Southeastern University.
In August 1999, she started as an ESOL teacher at Pine Grove Elementary School, and has held various positions in the District throughout her career, including ESOL Coordinator, Capacity Development Specialist, and Reading/Math Coach.
Her strong multicultural background has benefited her school’s diverse population throughout her time at the campus. Fluent in Haitian Creole and French, she understands the challenges faced by newcomers to the United States. That awareness helps her relate to the experiences of students in similar circumstances, their struggles in school, and the challenges they face with assimilating to a new culture.
“My goal for Pioneer Park is that we continue to work to motivate and teach our children while making sure that we do not forget about their social and emotional needs as well,” Dr. Moreau-Oliver said. “I see us continuing to break barriers and increase student achievement at its highest level.”
“Dr. Moreau-Oliver’s commitment to our community began when she served as a Capacity Development Specialist supporting schools in the Glades Region. I have no doubt that she will continue to build on the work she and Mrs. Buckman started six years ago at Pioneer Park Elementary,” said Angela Avery-Moore, the Glades Regional Superintendent. “We are growing greatness in the Glades Region, it is in Dr. Oliver’s DNA!”
Dr. Moreau-Oliver is appreciative of the many people who have helped her along the way, including her family for their unwavering support, a number of mentors throughout the District who shaped her leadership style, and her colleagues at her school.
“I am thankful to my Pioneer Park family who have stood by me in tough times and have never ceased to amaze me with their dedication to our students,” she said.
Dr. Moreau-Oliver is also grateful to have worked with exceptional administrators over the years who taught her that building a positive school culture and climate were the keys to a successful school. She also learned valuable lessons from her students, teachers, and staff.
“All of my students throughout this District have taught me patience and that every child needs a voice and should be given the opportunity to express themselves,” Dr. Moreau-Oliver said. “We need to help every child to become their best self. When you set the bar high, they will reach it and surpass it.”
Original source can be found here.
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