Schools
Frederick Douglass Elementary To Reopen Doors
Patch sits down with Timothy Martino, the new principal of restored school
Frederick Douglass Elementary will open its doors on August 27, welcoming about 600 students into a newly constructed building.
The school sits on the site of the old school of the same name, which was built in 1958 for African American students. In 1968, it was integrated and continued to operate as an elementary school until 1982. Until recently it has been used for educational support services.
The school is located at 510 Principal Drummond Way SE in Leesburg.
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Patch sat down with Timothy Martino, the school's new principal, to ask him about the renewed venture.
Background: Timothy Martino, 38, Native of western New York. BS from SUNY Fredonia, Masters in Educational Leadership from Shenandoah University; Previously served on charter staff of two Loudoun County Schools, five years as principal at Sully Elementary School in Sterling; 15th year working in education. Married with two children.
Find out what's happening in Leesburgfor free with the latest updates from Patch.
Patch: What drove you to work in education?
Martino: I enjoyed coaching basketball and teaching young people seemed like a way to have a more profound impact, this drove me to become a teacher.
Patch: What are you proud of in your education career?
Martino: I am proud that I have had the opportunity to be a part of three charter staffs and have been given many opportunities to grow my career in this school system.
Patch: What is something difficult that you have had to overcome?
Martino: We all have day to day challenges. In this school system there are a lot of supports in place and a big knowledge base to assist you. This school administration is exceptional and sets us up to be successful with the kids.
Patch: What attracted you to this job?
Martino: Any time you can be part of a charter staff it is exciting. There is a unique energy in being the part of the first group setting up the school.
Patch: What are you most looking forward to on the first day of school?
Martino: The kids coming and the energy they bring to the school. The tours the other night were great, it was nice to have the school full of people. I am looking forward to the kids making it their school.
