Mr. Jim Girardi

When talking with Mr. Jim Girardi, one feels as comfortable as if chatting with a lifelong friend. His vibrant smile and cheerfulness set a person at ease. At the same time he overflows with exuberance as he articulates his appreciation for those with whom he works.

As a principal for two elementary schools, Bell-Avon and Mamont, Jim has much in which to take pride. First he praises the hardworking students, noting their excellent academic achievements. Second, he commends his colleagues, saying, "I am proud of the teachers and staff. They share ideas and support one another. They are very upbeat and giving, and they'll do whatever it takes to get the job done." Third, Jim expresses how fortunate he is to be a part of the Kiski Area School District, and in particular to be working under Mr. Jim Dick, the Administrative Assistant.

With a love for working with children, Jim knew that he wanted to be an elementary education teacher. He attended Greenbriar Military Academy in West Virginia and Clarion University to obtain his Bachelor of Science degree. He then went on to receive his master's degree at Clarion, and his principal certification at Duquesne University. After teaching 14 years at Martin Elementary in New Kennsington, he became the principal there. In 1993, Jim also served as the LEA or Head of Special Education for the district and was in charge of transportation. This year is Jim's seventh year at the helm for Kiski. He has been a principal at Laurel Point Elementary as well as his two present schools.

To explain what he likes most about his job, Jim answers with excitement, "I like interacting with the staff and students. I have a great staff in both buildings." He also enjoys team building and creating an atmosphere where learning is fun. "You have to enjoy coming to work. It's reflective in what you do for the students," he explains. Moreover, Jim feels that enthusiasm is very contagious. He asserts, " If I am enthusiastic about education, the students will be too."

As a father and husband Jim spends his spare time enjoying some very unique hobbies. When his son, Jason, was quite young, Jim began collecting Lionel trains. Now he continues this pastime with his wife, Laura. He and Laura have also discovered the sport of drag racing. After attending a few races and meeting an excellent racer, Frank Brank, the two wanted to race themselves. "We started out with a 66 Nova and now with Frank's help we're building a 65 Chevelle. It's gonna be Laura's street rod," Jim declares with a smile. What an exciting way to relieve stress and spend time together - racing dragsters!

The words of Mary Emanuelson, head teacher at Bell-Avon Elementary, provide an excellent view of Jim's character. "Mr. Girardi is a great principal, because he makes the children his number one priority. He's easy to talk to and takes the time to talk to children and staff members anytime there is a need." One can see why Jim's colleagues have so much respect him. His enthusiasm and dedication make him an inspiring leader. We are fortunate to have Mr. Girardi as an educator in the Alle-Kiski Valley.