New principals leading in Fort Smith, Little Rock

Published: August 18, 2014

LaTonya Rayford White

School: St. Edward, Little Rock

Hometown: Holly Springs, Miss.

Education: Bachelor’s degree in early childhood education, Rust College, Holly Springs, Miss.; master’s degree in educational leadership, Trevecca Nazarene University, Nashville

Educational experience: Sixth grade teacher, St. Paul School, Memphis, Tenn.; middle school teacher and dean of students, Bishop Byrne Middle and High School, Memphis, Tenn.; principal, St. Augustine School, Memphis, Tenn.

Educational philosophy: A famous quote by Aristotle says, “Educating the mind without educating the heart is no education at all.” Education is the vessel that nourishes the total person to enter a world of discovery in order to live a purpose driven life. To me, this is the essence of education.

Benefits of Catholic education: Catholic education is the apex of the new evangelization. It teaches students to be self-disciplined disciples of Christ through academic excellence, service, faith and knowledge with the desire and belief to make a difference in the world.

Favorite saint or Scripture: St. Thomas Aquinas. “Be still and know that I am God” (Psalm 46:10)

Hobbies: I enjoy being with family and friends, reading, writing, baking and listening to inspirational music.

Ann Cannon

School: Christ the King, Fort Smith

Hometown: Fort Smith

Education: Bachelor’s degree in elementary education, University of Mississippi; master’s degree in educational leadership, Arkansas Tech University

Educational experience: Elementary teacher, St. Thomas Aquinas, Philadelphia, First United Methodist Weekday School, Fort Smith, and Immaculate Conception School, Fort Smith; assistant principal, Immaculate Conception School, Fort Smith

Educational philosophy: I believe education should be student-centered with the community working toward creating a society of learners where members feel safe and respected and are encouraged to explore, analyze, create, experiment and reflect with their learning. All members of the learning community are challenged to reach ever-increasing goals and achieve personal fulfillment. It is the role of the catechesis to share the Gospel with all members of the school community and enlighten others of gifts bestowed by the Holy Spirit and the fullness of God's love for each of us.

Benefits of Catholic education: Catholic education is rooted in the Gospel values of respect for life, love, solidarity, truth and justice. We develop a culture of high expectations, respect, trust, tolerance and love for all God created. Catholic schools provide a loving, devoted environment where the entire community of parents, students, teachers and parish is committed to the spiritual, academic and personal fulfillment of each child.

Favorite saint or Scripture: Colossians 3:12-14

Hobbies: Reading, hiking, camping

Click for the Catholic Schools Herald -- August 2014 index