October 31, 2022 -- Trevitt Elementary School Principal Dr. Keisha Fletcher-Bates is most passionate about student growth, mobilizing community partners, and changing the trajectory of the student experience at her school.
“I get excited when I run into students I taught early in my career. When I hear my previous students say, “it is because of you that I was able to succeed,” I am humbled. At the end of the day, this is what matters; that our students see a bright future ahead and are prepared to compete in all sectors of the world of work and life,” said Dr. Bates.
In her fourth year as Principal of Trevitt, Dr. Bates has a philosophy of making her students the primary focal point. She encourages Trevitt students to drive all actions with excellence, with no exceptions.
“The students at Trevitt deserve everything that the highest-performing school districts have, and I will see to it that they have it,” said Dr. Bates.
After earning her undergraduate degree from Alabama State University, her career began as a substitute teacher while attending graduate school at The Ohio State University.
Dr. Bates reflects on why she chose to become an educator.
“I became a special education teacher because I wanted to help people like my older sister, who has multiple disabilities. I was always intrigued by how she overcame her disability, and I wanted to help others do the same,” said Dr. Bates.
Dr. Bates began her 25-year career with Columbus City Schools (CCS), becoming a special education teacher at Weinland Park, Devonshire Elementary, and the former Berry Middle School. Starting her administrative career as a leadership intern at Sherwood and Buckeye Middle Schools, Dr. Bates became a curriculum Teacher on Summer Assignment (TOSA).
Soon after, Dr. Bates took on the role of assistant principal at Indianola Math Science & Technology School, the former Franklin Middle School, and Berwick Alternative (K-8) School.
In addition to teaching and taking on principalship roles, Dr. Bates has held various administrative positions within CCS. During her tenure as Director of Special Education Academics and then the Director of Academics, Dr. Bates earned her superintendent licensure and Ph.D. in 2009.
Being the principal at Trevitt is one of Dr. Bates's most significant accomplishments.
“I feel like I’m here for a divine purpose. I have the opportunity to change lives, support families, build relationships with community partners, and advocate for my students and staff,” said Dr. Bates.
Region 3 Area Superintendent Dr. Sandy Womack explains how Dr. Bates provides strong leadership while supporting the academic excellence of the students at Trevitt.
“Dr. Bates is the epitome of excellence, commitment, and tenacity. She has given her time, resources, and self to ensure her students and community are moving in the right direction. Dr. Bates works diligently to increase student performance and has transformed the culture and climate at Trevitt tremendously,” said Dr. Womack.
As a health and science academy, Trevitt’s family-school-community partnerships are a shared responsibility. Dr. Bates intentionally engages school and community learning to expand learning successes among Trevitt students.
Trevitt Community Partner Ophelia Arnold, the Agency Coordinator with Urban Family Development Center, believes that Dr. Bates has a gift to empower others.
“Dr. Bates is a great leader, and I know Trevitt Elementary and the surrounding neighborhood where she serves are better because of her passion and commitment,” said Arnold.
The successes at Trevitt are most notable in the culture and climate of the school. Dr. Bates is proud of how Trevitt's parents are supportive and highly engaged with their students. As a result, students are learning to serve in school and throughout their communities.
“Our students are becoming leaders, and their pride in their school is impressive! Our school motto, “At Trevitt, we are not average; we are excellent,” is coming to fruition, and it's visible,” said Dr. Bates.
In place of the traditional fall festival festivities, students participated in Trevitt’s Health Science Career Parade last Friday. Students had the opportunity to dress up in costumes related to the health sciences designation.
Ready for their close-up, career parade costume winners, Pre-K student Miaunee Jenkins and Kindergarten student Ronesto Jackson are all smiles.
Dr. Bates shares her thoughts on the lessons she’s learned throughout her career in education.
“I greet my students daily, wave at the parents and buses, smile often, and show enthusiasm. I want my students to feel like their voice matters! I love knowing that I can bring a smile to their faces,” said Dr. Bates.
