Staff Spotlight: Dr. Kevin Skomer, LWS Principal
by Joy Mazur, BHS senior/BPS101 Communications Dept. intern
It is no secret that Batavia Public School District 101 thrives because of the dedication of its staff; Dr. Kevin Skomer, principal of Louise White Elementary School, is one such dedicated faculty member.
Dr. Skomer has worked at BPS101 for 20 years. He was the principal of both the old and new Grace McWayne Elementary School and became the principal of Louise White Elementary School seven years ago.
“I got to see lots of growth,” Dr. Skomer explained. “It was a real exciting opportunity to open a new school and talk to the school community about what we could make it.”
The birth of a new school is not the only progress that Dr. Skomer has seen in the education sector. His first role as a school administrator was monitoring the introduction of computers into a large elementary school. Now, technology plays an ever-growing role in schools and Dr. Skomer looks forward to using it in a way to help his young students and enhance their education.
“As a district, one of the big things we’re looking at is the concept of personalized learning,” said Dr. Skomer. “What role does technology play in helping kids, and how can we shift the classroom environment to meld what we’re doing so that kids can connect to it at a personal level?”
Dr. Skomer’s passion and enjoyment for his job comes from working with the students and faculty. He makes a habit of greeting Louise White students by name and socializing with them to make the school a welcoming place for children. Every year, he keeps tradition alive by meeting each student and helping them ring the bell that stands as sentry of the school.
He loves the excitement that they bring to school, stating that they “keep [him] young.” He hopes to establish a love for learning in children that will last them their whole life.
“They love learning, they love being in school, they love their teacher. If I can be a part of helping to make sure they stay [excited] before they start to think everything is boring, I think that’s cool,” explained Dr. Skomer.
As for the faculty, Dr. Skomer has nothing but praise for his coworkers: “The teachers are just so dedicated. Their enthusiasm, their love for kids, and their desire to do whatever they can to make the best learning experience connects with what I believe in as well.”
Dr. Skomer also has the special experience of seeing the district through a parent’s eyes. His daughter is a graduate of Batavia High School and was very involved with the school’s theater program, while his son is a current senior at BHS and the Batavia Marching Band’s drum major. To support their interests and the upper levels of education, he stays involved as a volunteer. It allows him to see both aspects of the district.
“I’ve had the pleasure of raising my kids in this area,” said Dr. Skomer. “I love being a part of a district that values doing what is right for kids and asks how they can continue to get better. I’m one of those people who is lucky enough to get up every day and do something that I love.”
