Title: Principal (Retired)

Company: Napa Valley Unified School District
Donaldson Way Elementary School

Location: El Verano, CA, United States

EL VERANO, CA, September 20, 2016, Janis Sparks, former Principal, at Donaldson Way Elementary School, a subsidiary of the Napa Valley Unified School District, has been recognized by Elite American Educators for dedication, achievements, and leadership in educational management

Ms. Sparks decided to become a teacher while she was still in elementary school. In learning about Albert Schweitzer, she found great inspiration in his words, “The purpose of human life is to serve, and to show compassion and the will to help others.” His reverence for life as the foundation of ethics became embedded in her, along with her determination to serve others through teaching. She views everyday as a great gift and an opportunity to make a difference in the lives of others. She has always believed that education must address not only academics, but also the development of character and wisdom. To that end, weekly messages based on the words and actions of the great thinkers of the world were included in her student bulletins and acts of kindness and ethical behavior were celebrated school wide.

With nearly four decades of professional experience under her belt, Ms. Sparks continuously strives for excellence in her every endeavor, making every effort to help others to accomplish their academic and personal goals. She specializes in teacher training and evaluation, program design and implementation, character education and curriculum development, and also holds particular expertise in year-long test preparation based on state standards, and reading instruction for struggling students. As a principal, Ms. Sparks was primarily responsible for managing all functions of the school with 650 students and 60 employees, prior to her retirement from her position. She was also in charge of writing grants and overseeing curriculum and instruction before she retired from her role as principal.

Throughout a prosperous career in education, Ms. Sparks has found that she stands out because of her humanity. She has the ability to empathize with people in all walks of life and all ages. Whether with the students, their parents or administrators, Ms. Sparks is able to relate to people from all over the world and all walks of life. She has garnered a reputation of distinction for her outstanding efforts, and her awards and accolades have included the Community Leadership and Service Award, as granted by the State of California, and title of Valedictorian upon graduation from Ceres Union High School. She was also named Professional of the Year in Educational Leadership by Worldwide Who’s Who, as she has managed to create a community of learners where there are over 20 different languages spoken, with children from all over the world.

Janis Sparks was originally selected for inclusion in EliteAMERICAN Educators in November 2012 and September 2015. We are proud to be featuring Ms. Sparks again in EliteAMERICAN Educators for 2016.

Contact Janis Sparks