Dr. Contessa S. Bryant
A proud product of Miami-Dade County Public Schools, Dr. Bryant holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Communications from Florida State University in Tallahassee, Florida. After spending some time in the private sector, Dr. Bryant transitioned to education where she served as a middle grades language arts teacher. Understanding the importance of continued education, Dr. Bryant pursued advanced degrees from NOVA Southeastern University earning a Master of Science degree in Reading, an Education Specialist degree in Educational Leadership and a Doctorate degree in Organizational Leadership. Her expertise in teaching pedagogy and reading content led to a series of assignments in the area of reading coach and curriculum support specialist.
Dr. Bryant has more than ten years administrative experience serving as assistant principal at Campbell Drive Elementary, Campbell Drive Middle and Homestead Senior High. She was pleased to have been appointed principal at Lenora B. Smith Elementary beginning the 2012-2013 school year. During her tenure as principal, the school has witnessed tremendous growth including: two letter grade increase on Florida's Grading System, elimination from Florida's lowest 300 performing elementary school list, implementation of a number of after school programming/clubs, introduction of the performing arts (dance, music and drama), enhanced community partnerships resulting in great opportunities, experiences and advancements for students, inclusion of students in extended learning opportunities to include Breakthrough Miami, Miami City Ballet, etc., reintroduction of the school's PTA, introduction of the Gator Aides (a daily corp of parent volunteers), increase in the number of students accepted in magnet programs and public/ private charter as well as numerous other recognitions aired on television and in print.
Dr. Bryant now serves as principal at Homestead Middle School where in her first year the school moved a letter grade.
Outside of school, Dr. Bryant is a sought after motivational speaker, a writer, a proud wife and an adoring mother.