By Deniece Moss, Principal
What is your story? It’s a question that seems simple on the surface, but when posed to me recently by Ben Sasse, the President of the University of Florida at a baseball game, it took me aback. It made me pause and truly reflect on the narrative of West Bay Elementary, the hidden gem nestled in the heart of Panama City Beach, known affectionately as “a small school with a big heart.” As the proud principal of this extraordinary school, I’ve come to realize that our story isn’t just about bricks and mortar; it’s about the people who breathe life into our halls, who inspire and uplift each other every single day.
At West Bay Elementary, our mantra for this year is “Up There With The Best of The Best.” It’s not just a catchy phrase; it’s a testament to the dedication and excellence that permeates every aspect of our school community. From our exceptional educators and staff to our eager scholars and their families, from our supportive community partners to our collaborative school district, each stakeholder plays a vital role in shaping the narrative of success at West Bay.
Our top-notch educators embody the qualities of passion, dedication, and innovation. They go above and beyond to create engaging learning experiences tailored to the diverse needs of our students. Whether it’s incorporating technology into the curriculum or implementing hands-on projects, our teachers constantly strive for excellence, setting a high standard for both themselves and their scholars. With Teacher Appreciation quickly approaching, this is a great time to celebrate the teachers who invest so much time and dedication to their scholars, no matter what school they serve in. Whether it is a note of appreciation or a small gift just to let them know that they are seen.
But our scholars and their families are equally essential to our success. Scholars bring enthusiasm, curiosity, and a hunger for knowledge that fuels our classrooms. Through their active participation in school events, volunteering opportunities, and parent-teacher collaborations, they foster a sense of unity and belonging that is truly unparalleled. We are so grateful for the families that view education as a team. As Mr. McQueen reminds our schools and community often, “we are a team of teams!”
Of course, none of this would be possible without the unwavering support of our community partners. Year after year, they come alongside us, generously offering their time, resources, and expertise to fill in any gaps and enrich the educational experience for our students. Whether it’s through donations, mentorship programs, or sponsoring school-wide celebrations, their commitment to our school community is nothing short of inspiring.
One program that particularly stands out is the Elevate Bay mentoring program. This initiative pairs caring adults from the community with students who can benefit from additional guidance and support. Through one-on-one mentoring sessions, these dedicated volunteers help nurture confidence, resilience, and a sense of purpose in our students, empowering them to reach their full potential. West Bay has “the best of the best” when it comes to community partnerships. Just a few who have assisted in serving our scholars in many ways include The St. Joe Foundation, Memory Makers from Margaritaville Latitude Watersound, Panama City Beach Women’s Civic Club, Emerald Coast VFW/Auxiliary to VFW Post 10555, Backpack Blessings of PCB as well as numerous churches and businesses.
As I reflect on the story of West Bay Elementary, I am filled with pride and gratitude for the incredible individuals who make up our school community. Together, we are not just up there with the best of the best; we are leading the way, setting a shining example of what excellence in education truly looks like. And as we continue to write the next chapters of our story, I am confident that the future holds nothing but boundless opportunities for growth, learning, and success.
As you read about the incredible journey of West Bay Elementary, I invite you to pause and ponder: What is your story? Each of us has a unique narrative filled with triumphs, challenges, and moments of growth. Perhaps, like me, you’re inspired by the power of education and the impact it can have on shaping young minds. If so, I encourage you to consider adding a special chapter to your own story by getting involved in a local elementary, middle, or high school. Whether it’s through volunteering, mentoring, or donating resources, there are countless ways to make a difference in someone else’s story. By lending your time, talents, and compassion, you can help nurture the next generation of leaders, innovators, and changemakers. Together, we can all play a part in creating brighter futures and building stronger communities, one story at a time.
