Upstate Parent's 2024 Educators Who Make A Difference: Jennifer Woody

Principal, Summit Drive Elementary School

In her first year as principal at Summit Drive Elementary School, Jennifer Woody is growing and learning, even as fulfills her personal goals.

“I have had the pleasure of serving the students of Greenville County Schools as a teacher and assistant principal,” she said. “I served as Assistant Principal at Beck Academy and Monarch Elementary and was recognized as Teacher of the Year at Sterling School where I taught fourth grade. In addition, I taught third grade at Mauldin Elementary School. Coming out of the classroom, when I started doing administration, my goal was so that I could reach more kids, to reach more people.”

Woody is a self-described sports mom who is often cheering on her own children and her students. 

“This is my 16th year in education,” she said. “Since childhood, I wanted to be a teacher and had a love for helping people, especially children. I was fortunate to have some wonderful teachers who were great examples of educators and inspired me, many of whom I am still in contact with. I participated in a very successful teacher cadet program at my high school and knew after doing my first placement that I wanted to major in elementary education.”

The relationships with students, families and teachers are the core delight for Woody.

“Through these relationships I am able to see some of the most joyous moments but also be there when things aren’t the best,” she said. “Partnering with students and families to ensure student success in all aspects of their lives is important to me as a leader. Our school motto this year is #summitshines and it is so awesome watching students shine bright in all aspects of their lives. Just playing a small role in that brings me much joy.”