October 04, 2024 -- Woodcrest Elementary School Principal Yolanda Cooper’s educational philosophy can be summed up in one word: family.

That meant creating cohesiveness among her school “family” of staff, students, parents, and community partners. When Cooper arrived at Woodcrest, Columbus City Schools' only year-round school, in 2021, her top priority was building relationships with students, staff, and families. Despite being a new principal as students returned to in-person learning after COVID-19, Cooper quickly made her presence felt.

Cooper recalls spending entire days in hallways, classrooms, lunchrooms, the playground, and even the car line talking to students, engaging staff and parents whenever possible.

“I wanted them to know that, as a leader, I was there for you,” Cooper said.

Cooper prides herself on servant leadership and ensuring everyone feels valued in the “Woodcrest family.” Every morning, staff greet students as they step out of their parents’ cars for  hugs and conversations. The school calendar is packed with events  to excite students about coming to school.

“I want students to feel like they are having an experience, so they always want to return,” Cooper said.

Cooper’s journey to becoming a principal was atypical. She earned a bachelor’s degree in sociology from the University of Akron. Her Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction in Career and Technical Education came from Concordia University Portland.

After graduating from Akron, Cooper started her career at a chemical company before moving to Pennsylvania, where she coordinated an anti-drug coalition and began working directly with youth. Her passion for education led her to Penn State, where she guided high school students in a talent search program.

“My job there was to expose high school students to what they would do after high school,” Cooper said. “I was there to build them up.”

From there, she became an academic advisor at the University of Cincinnati, spending seven years shaping students’ educational paths. After her time at the University of Cincinnati, she became a high school dean of students, eventually moving into a principal role overseeing grades 7-12. Five years later, she transitioned to elementary education and is now leading and shaping the young minds at Woodcrest Elementary. Having served at every level of education gives Cooper a unique perspective on the importance of primary education. 

“My joy is elementary, and I think it’s because I have seen the path [students] have to go through,” Cooper said. “Elementary school is the root. If I can catch them here and build them up, they will be set to succeed in middle school, high school, and beyond.”

Another "root" Cooper is passionate about is reading. Every day, students line up with a book in hand in the hallways, silently reading as they transition between classes. Similarly, students silently read while waiting for their names to be called in the car line. Cooper encourages parents to read with their children and practice comprehension skills during everyday tasks.

“Reading is what will help our students have  a successful life,” she said.

Cooper also values community partnerships, regularly contacting local businesses for donations and inviting organizations to support reading and math programs. She takes pride in the neighborhood’s support of the school as well. Every year, the Pine Hills Civic Association donates Christmas gifts to students and presents teachers with appreciation gifts.

“Wherever your school sits, you should be connected to the community that surrounds it,” Cooper said. “The students should feel that support.”

Nichelle Bigsbee, president of the Pine Hills Civic Association and the Woodcrest Parent-Teacher Organization, praised Cooper as a community partner and advocate for students and staff. As a parent, Bigsbee appreciates Cooper’s efforts to keep families engaged, whether through distributing flyers in the car line or hosting events like a catered parent gala.

“She makes everyone feel important,” Bigsbee said.

During National Principals Month, Columbus City Schools recognizes Principal Cooper and all CCS principals for elevating our scholars.