Karen Siyanbola, principal of Saints Peter and Paul. - Rudolph Brow/Photographer

WE WATCHED as she spoke and directed several students and parents to her office.

Her every move is sure and well paced as words of correction are uttered, coated with love. But this is just opinion formed after a few minutes of observation.

Karen Siyanbola, the principal of Saints Peter and Paul Preparatory School in Liguanea, St Andrew, seems to capture the meaning of virtue, grace and reverence.

As she sat with The Gleaner yesterday to share her on-the-job experiences, there was no doubt that the newly appointed principal was endowed with humility and kindness.

"It has been wonderful, challenging and exciting," she said of her first days at the institution.

With a broad smile, Siyanbola said the most challenging part of the job was "trying to satisfy each person and ensuring that the best interest of every person is being looked about".

And that is what she has been doing. Only five days on the job, and Siyanbola has already identified areas for change.

"I would like to bring some visual arts and music into the school," she said, pointing out that it had been strongly requested by parents.

music therapy

Siyanbola, who had worked at several institutions teaching children with special needs, said she wanted to use music and art as therapy to help students deal with their emotional or behavioural issues.

While identifying other areas of change, she was quick to point out that it required team effort. "I like to work along with a team. If everybody does take ownership, then it (change) will go through," she added.

Siyanobla brings to the 46-year-old Catholic institution 23 years of experience as an artist, specialist in problematic behaviours, educator, and best practices learnt from these roles.

She said that parents "can expect open communication, support and a high standard. I want them to know that I am an approachable person and I engender trust".