Q&A with Black Canyon Elementary School Principal Travis Draper

The News-Examiner recently sat down with Travis Draper, the principal of Black Canyon Elementary School in Grace. Here are his answers to our questions.

News-Examiner: How do you build motivation for student achievement?

Draper: We try to provide feedback, celebrate successes, and give praise and attention for the good things students are doing.

NE: What are some ways you create leadership in elementary aged students?

Draper: We encourage teamwork. We rotate duties and responsibilities in the classroom, hallways and lunchroom. Setting expectations as well as effective communication are great strategies to promote student leadership as well.

NE: What is your vision and hope for the 2024-25 school year?

Draper: I hope that all students, faculty and staff have a great year. I hope for great growth and success. Our vision is to provide the best learning environment possible for our children, so they may grow both academically and socially, as well as develop a love for learning.

NE: How do you balance the needs of individual students and the overall goals of the school?

Draper: Keeping a healthy balance is important. As each student succeeds, our school will also succeed.

NE: How do you prioritize the development and needs of your teachers?

Draper: We have amazing teachers here at Black Canyon Elementary School. Our staff is constantly finding ways to improve and find best teaching practices. We meet often and share ideas, strategies and experience to help everyone grow.

NE: How do you build relationships with students?

Draper: Getting to know each student by name helps to build relationships. Asking questions like what are their hobbies? Favorite sports teams? What are they interested in? Greeting students each morning and making the day fun are ways we build relationships.

NE: What do you like most about your job?

Draper: I love the kids. My favorite part of my day is being lucky enough to associate with these amazing young people. Our staff is pretty awesome too.

NE: What is the biggest challenge with your job as principal?

Draper: Finding resources to ensure my teachers and staff have all of the tools necessary to succeed.

NE: How do you keep Black Canyon Elementary School safe and secure?

Draper: Constant and consistent safety practices, drills and procedures will help to keep our school, our children and staff as safe as possible.