Heather Barron is transitioning from the role of assistant principal to principal of T.G. Smith Elementary School.
"It is my pleasure to announce Ms. Heather Barron as the new principal of T.G. Smith Elementary School,” said Dr. Jared Cleveland, Springdale Public Schools superintendent. “She has demonstrated strong, data driven leadership and an unwavering commitment to student success. Her proven ability to strengthen Tier 1 instruction, build effective support systems and foster a positive school culture positions the school to continue improving and reaching an A letter grade."
Barron said being named the principal of T.G. Smith Elementary is an honor.
“T.G. Smith Elementary has a strong culture, high expectations and a clear commitment to student learning, and I’m proud to continue that work alongside our students, staff and families,” Barron said. “Together, we will continue building on the systems and relationships already in place to ensure every child is successful.”
Barron has worked for Springdale Public Schools for 21 years. She taught second and third grade and was an instructional facilitator at Jones Elementary School prior to serving as the assistant principal of Smith for seven years.
She holds an Educational Specialist degree in Educational Leadership from the Arkansas State University in Jonesboro and an English as a Second Language Endorsement from Henderson State University in Arkadelphia, demonstrating her commitment to inclusive school leadership. Her foundational training was completed at the University of Arkansas, where she obtained a Master of Arts in Teaching in Early Childhood Education, as well as a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education.
Barron said she looks forward to continuing the work that makes Smith a special place to learn and grow.
“I am deeply grateful to Principal Kim Simco for the way she invested in me, modeled strong leadership and intentionally poured into my growth to help prepare me for this role,” Barron said. “I would like to sincerely thank Dr. Cleveland, his leadership team and the Springdale School Board for giving me the opportunity to serve in this capacity.”
Barron is married to her husband of 18 years, Colter. The couple have two sons, Beckett and Bryland.
“I love spending time together as a family, whether we’re camping, relaxing at the beach or cheering on the Arkansas Razorbacks,” she said.