NEW PRINCIPAL Q&A: Allison Keyes, Kiroli Elementary

How did you get into education?

From a very early age, I knew I wanted to be a teacher. As a student at Kiroli Elementary, I loved helping my teachers and being around children. Like many little girls, I played school all the time, but for me, it grew into something much more. I was privileged to have Kim Conner at Kiroli three different years, once as a student teacher and twice as my teacher. Carolyn Norris was my fourth grade teacher and the best storyteller. I wanted to be just like them when I grew up. They showed me that learning could be fun, and I knew I wanted to do the same for my students. I also had the unique opportunity to see firsthand what it meant to be an educator by watching my parents. There really was never a time when I pictured myself doing anything other than working with children, teaching them, encouraging them, and watching them grow. Education has always felt like a natural calling for me.

When did you realize you wanted to go beyond the classroom and become an administrator?

My second year of teaching, I moved to Flower Mound, Texas, and taught at Liberty Elementary. It was a year of tremendous growth for me, both personally and professionally. For the first time, I was completely on my own in a new state, surrounded by new friends, coworkers, and administrators who poured into me and challenged me to grow as both a teacher and a leader. At the end of that year, I felt God leading me back home, but I also realized He had been preparing me for my next step, which was pursuing an educational leadership degree. Both of my parents were principals at the time, so I had the opportunity to learn from them and see firsthand the many hats administrators wear. Looking back, I believe that was the year God began showing me that one day my calling would extend beyond my own classroom and into leadership.

What kind of leader do you want to be?

I want to be a leader who builds trust, communicates clearly, and leads with both care and high expectations. I want my staff to feel supported and valued while also knowing that we are accountable for doing what is best for students. I want to be a visible, collaborative leader who builds strong relationships with students, staff, families, and our community. I want parents and community partners to feel welcomed, valued, and connected to our school. Most importantly, I want to create a culture of excellence and belonging where everyone feels invested in helping our students learn, grow, and thrive.

What do you want to accomplish in the first nine weeks as principal?

In my first nine weeks, I want to focus on building strong relationships with students, staff, families, and our community. I want to establish clear academic and behavior expectations by making sure we teach students what those expectations look like before we hold them accountable. I also want to create meaningful opportunities for families and community partners to be involved in our school. Above all, I want to keep the heart of our school at the center of every decision—our students and their learning.

Who is Allison away from school? Tell us about your personal life, hobbies and your family.

Away from school, I love spending time with my family. My husband, Charlie, and I have three beautiful girls Maggie, Mollie, and Macie. Having three sweet, spunky girls is a dream come true. They love all things girly—princesses, dancing, gymnastics, and, just like their mama did as a child, playing school. We may have another teacher on our hands! One of our favorite things to do as a family is go to the beach whenever we can and make memories together. We are also active members of Fair Park Baptist Church and are grateful for the community and friendships it brings to our family. Our family and our church community are both very important to us. Fun fact: I’ve always dreamed of owning my own flower shop. I love flowers and creating arrangements. Flowers just spread happiness, and I love being able to bring a little joy to others through them!

THE KEYES FILE:

July 2026- Present: Principal, Kiroli Elementary

August 2019-June 2026: Assistant Principal, Kiroli Elementary

August 2014-July 2019: Assistant Principal, Sterlington Elementary

August 2008-July 2014: Fourth Grade Teacher, Claiborne Elementary

August 2007-July 2008: Fifth Grade Teacher, Liberty Elementary

August 2006-July 2007: Third Grade Teacher, George Welch Elementary