The 2012 school year will be the last for Robert Lewis, principal of Ordway Elementary school. Serving just six years as its leader, he is stepping down from his position.
It’s not an easy decision. Lewis has formed bonds working with the staff and students at Ordway.
“Ordway has been very blessed for many years of being strong a school and I’d like to believe I’ve contributed to that,” Lewis said. “It’s a cooperative effort with the staff community and the students.”
Lewis can’t boast enough of the school’s strength as a community player.
“Ordway has always enjoyed a wonderful reputation of being community-based and caring for children,” Lewis said. “I believe strongly of the importance of our relationship with the families, and how that sustains education.”
Lewis has spent his time on the island well. One of the things he is most proud of is his participation with the Bainbridge Schools Foundation and their efforts to help fund the island schools.
However, Lewis came to the difficult conclusion that it was time to leave Ordway.
Lewis has family in North Carolina, and while he has grown fond of the island that he has called home over the passed six years, he said it is time to be near his family once again.
“It was mostly what’s best for my family at this time,” Lewis said. “In some ways because we’ve lived (in North Carolina) so long there is an element that it feels like home.”
Lewis will take a position as principal of Fox Road Elementary School in Wake County.
He will finish out the year at Ordway and immediately start his new position at Fox Road on July 1.
Lewis looks forward to his new gig. Wake County has experienced a dramatic growth in population, and in turn the schools there have been swelling with students. He likes the idea of taking on the challenge there.
While he looks forward to going home, the move is bittersweet for Lewis. Bainbridge Island has left quite an impression.
“The beauty of this area, the absolute beauty of Washington and Kitsap County,” Lewis said in admiration. “You can turn any corner and come across a vista that is breathtaking.”
