Dr. Tara Grant - Principal
Enter Title
March 2023
I am proud to serve as the principal of Radford High School. As an alumna, I couldn't be more invested in continuing the Bobcat Traditions deeply rooted in our community. The Bobcats are having an amazing year with academic success, athletic competitions, and getting connected again after several years of the pandemic! We are proud of all of our students, teachers, and coaches.
We appreciate our positive and supportive school community. I look forward to providing relevant learning opportunities to students to help prepare them to be contributing citizens of our community. I want to assure you that the staff at Radford High School loves their students and wants to see them become the best they can be.
My Background:
I committed to graduate from Radford High School in 1990. I had a very competitive group of peers, so I had to do several hours of homework when I got home from track practice. I ran cross-country, indoor track, and outdoor track for four years. Because of the lack of free time, I had to use my time wisely and put first things first (Habit 3). I knew I wanted to graduate from college so I had an academic plan (Habit 2).
I then committed to graduate from James Madison University in Harrisonburg, VA, in 1994. I met new friends from all over the United States. I learned how to survive on my own and be responsible (Habit 1). I graduated with a degree in Human Communication, Public Relations.
After working for a couple of years, I changed my mind and wanted to be a teacher! I come from a long line of teachers, so that was not a surprise to my family. I went back to school AGAIN! I committed to graduate from Radford University and getting my teaching certification and master's in curriculum and instruction. This time when I was in school, it was tough because I was working too! I had to prioritize work and play to be successful and graduate.
For several years, I taught third and fifth grades at Christiansburg Elementary School in Montgomery County. I enjoyed using technology in my daily routine. I then realized that I could be an Instructional Technology Resource Teacher. So, I did that for several years. I helped principals, teachers, and students integrate technology into daily learning. I enjoyed working with principals so much, I decided I wanted to be one and help students and teachers.
I committed to graduate from Radford University AGAIN to be a school administrator. Yes, teaching all day, going to class two nights a week, and being a wife and a mom were tough. I was successful because I had support from my family. It is essential to have people that believe in you and want you to reach your dreams.
I served as assistant principal of Falling Branch Elementary for two years. Then I was the principal of Belview Elementary for three years before coming home to Radford, where I began my journey as principal of Belle Heth Elementary. I was the principal there for five years. I was also the principal of McHarg Elementary School, along with serving as principal of Belle Heth that final year due to the McHarg Renovation Project.
I have been fortunate to have worked with and learned from the world's most outstanding and loving people, and educators! Bus drivers, custodians, school nutrition, classroom teachers, specialty teachers, specialists, instructional aides, office managers, nurses, administrators, and parent and community volunteers educate and love our students. This is happening in Radford and because of this, students want to come to school. It is obvious that we have championed our students.
I am proud to serve as the principal of Radford High School. I am excited to watch our students grow and succeed. I also look forward to growing leadership capacity within our staff to empower out-of-the-box problem-solving and encourage creativity.
I committed to graduate from Radford University AGAIN to earn my doctorate in Educational Leadership. I took night classes for three years, completed papers and assignments, and completed my dissertation. Working as a principal through COVID and going to school was very difficult. My family, professors, and classmates supported and encouraged me. I look forward to using my knowledge to improve our school community.
I love working in the community where I live with my family. Working in Radford is a dream come true! I know the students, staff, and families are wonderful people that want the best for their children.
I look forward to meeting you and working together to give our students opportunities to grow and succeed!
Dr. Tara Grant
Book Reference: The 7 Habits of Happy Kids by Sean Covey
