There is a HERO inside all of us! It’s the theme that Bev Budzynski, the new principal at Village Oaks Elementary School (VOE), put into place this year for her students and staff. She adds, “We all have superpowers—what is yours?”

Budzynski joins VOE with 33 years of experience in education. Most recently, she served as principal of Sea Gate Elementary School in Naples. Budzynski has a strong passion for students, student achievement, and community involvement.

“I am excited to join the Immokalee community of learners. The students, staff, parents, and community members have been so welcoming.”

Together with her staff, Budzynski is currently working on several new initiatives. For example, to boost family involvement, they hope to host a Saturday event at school once a month. The event would include games, activities, food, and local community agencies. You can also expect to see some reading carnivals to celebrate student success as well as incentives for good attendance.

“I am honored to work alongside the Village Oaks staff this year,” shares Budzynski. “We have a dedicated, energetic, passionate, knowledgeable staff who are going to do whatever it takes to help each child reach their fullest potential.”

The staff recently demonstrated these traits, voluntarily working this summer to add a rock garden, flowers, landscaping, and hallway decorations throughout the campus. And they also hope to have students paint murals on the bridge leading to the school.

Some other positive changes you might see on campus—flexible seating options in the classroom and new furniture in the staff lounge—all thanks to the Benison Center.

Get your capes, kids! It’s time to show your superpowers!