As we continue celebrating National Principals Month, we are proud to highlight Dr. Emily Grace, Principal of Northside Intermediate School, for her servant leadership, dedication, and deep-rooted commitment to helping every child reach their full potential.

With 25 years in education, including 17 years in Opelika, Dr. Grace brings a wealth of experience and heart to her role. She has served as a classroom teacher, instructional coach, and now principal, leading with the belief that meaningful relationships are at the center of learning.

“Being able to have a relationship with every child in the building is what I enjoy most,” Dr. Grace shared. “When the students are out of school and we don’t have them at Northside, I truly miss them. Seeing their smiles each day brightens my world.”

Dr. Grace believes that schools are places for academic growth and environments that cultivate confidence and character.

“Leaders aren’t born, they’re made,” she said. “My job is to make more leaders.”

Her favorite motto, “She believed she could, so she did,” reflects the same belief she instills in her students by empowering them to recognize their potential and rise to every challenge.

Please join us in celebrating and thanking Dr. Emily Grace for her unwavering dedication to the students, staff, and families of Northside Intermediate School. Her vision, compassion, and commitment to growing young leaders make Northside a place where every child feels seen, supported, and inspired to lead.