There are a lot of things about Dublin Elementary School that are unique. It’s the only school in the area with an actual observatory and museum on campus. Their mascot pays homage to the communities’ Irish namesake. A new addition in 2014 added a completely new wing to the older original school.
One thing that is not unusual when it comes to a school in our school system, however, is the level of leadership provided by the principal, staff, and teachers at DES.
Dr. Elizabeth Webb, the principal at DES, is another product and success story of Pulaski County.
“I grew up in Pulaski County and am a proud Cougar!” Dr. Webb said. “I graduated from PCHS in 2000 and continued my education at Virginia Tech. My journey to education was not a straight path. I majored in political science and minored in history, yet I had no idea what I wanted to do for a career. I decided to work on a master's degree in public administration and policy, which I received in 2006.”
With a large amount of college education under her belt, Dr. Webb was still not quite sure of her path in life.
“As many young college grads, I still did not know what I wanted to do, but I knew I needed to have a job while I determined my path,” she said. “I worked for a year as a secretary in an office, and the idea of being a teacher kept pulling at my heart and soul. I went to Radford University to complete my education coursework, blocking internship, and student teaching. I am thankful that I grew up with an incredibly supportive family who allowed me to take time to determine my path.”
With her plans set, she returned to Pulaski County to begin working in her chosen field.
“I began my career in education at Dublin Middle School teaching sixth grade US History,” Webb said. “I loved every minute of it! After teaching for a few years, I entered the Educational Leadership Program at Radford University, and I received my degree in 2014. The assistant principal position at DES came open, and I became a Shamrock in September 2014! I became principal of Dublin Elementary in 2017, and I started working towards my doctoral degree at that time. I received my degree in 2021. I have loved every minute of my time as a Shamrock!”
Her enthusiasm for the job not only pushes her to reach the limits, but has energized and inspired others around her.
“I have a collection of special memories throughout my career,” she said. “Working with middle school students, as a teacher, was an exceptional experience. I was able to teach content I loved with students I loved being with. One of the coolest things now is seeing my former students as adults, raising families, contributing to the world, and living wonderful lives. I’ve reached a point in my career where I have been able to work with the children of former students at DES. That’s pretty awesome!”
Now in the leadership role, Dr. Webb has even more experiences to look back on. Some of the things she loved about being a teacher, however, remain the same in her new role.
“My favorite part of being a principal is getting to spend time with the students. The joy they bring to my life is great, and it is a joy to get to see them learn and grow. It is also a joy to work with the faculty and staff at DES, watching them grow as educators and do amazing work with students. My biggest challenge as a principal is finding a strong work/life balance. All educators worry about their students and think about ways to assist them at all hours of the day,” she said.
Having former students that are now working alongside her as educators, Dr. Webb reminds them and others who may follow in their footsteps of the things that matter the most in education.
“It is a difficult job, but it is one of the most rewarding careers someone can have,” Webb said. “Being a teacher includes so much more than teaching the Standards of Learning. You will help your students carry burdens, work within a community, and support families through the learning process.”
As she continues to meet new students and staff members each year, Dr. Webb is convinced she made the right decision by getting involved in the education field.
“One of the best parts of my life is being a part of the Shamrock community. I am thankful to all of the parents and guardians who trust us with their children every day and help make our school community so strong. Our faculty and staff members at Dublin Elementary School work diligently to ensure our students have high quality instruction and a school experience centered in love. They are rock stars! It is truly a pleasure to be a Shamrock, and it is a joy to work with all of the members of the Shamrock community.”
