Ruling the school Lambert leads Bob Jones in engaged learning
WRITTEN BY GREGG L. PARKER
PHOTOGRAPHS BY JEN FOUTS-DETULLEO
Education looks different than it did five or ten years ago. Sylvia Lambert, principal at Bob Jones High School, said Madison schools realize new trends, as do many North Alabama schools.
“Students want teachers who respect them and engage them in learning rather than telling them what they should learn. We want students to know our teachers care about their lives,” Lambert said. “We strive to offer curriculum that explains the what and the why and connects to their lives. Students indicate an ongoing desire to learn – but in more creative ways” with hands-on, real-world and first-hand experiences.
Internships in engineering, computer science/IT, health sciences and bio-medical have provided those hands-on, real-world and first-hand experiences. Clubs, labs and advanced-placement courses also help. Lambert also has held small-group sessions with students to become better acquainted. “I enjoy listening to our students and learning with them.”
Lambert was confident in accepting Bob Jones’ principalship. Since 1995, the Lamberts have participated in Madison’s civic, church and sports events. “I understand high expectations within our community. I enjoy serving Madison students and families,” Lambert.
Lambert replaced Robby Parker, now assistant superintendent of Madison City Schools. “How does one follow a legend?” Lambert said. “I have much respect for Mr. Parker and other principals who have led Bob Jones faculty in building traditions of excellence in academics, the arts, athletics and many other areas.”
Lambert said she feels “passionate about creating an environment for students to build, create, share, perform and serve others, locally and globally. I believe in my teachers and the culture we’re constantly developing.”
Bob Jones faculty promotes effective communication, critical thinking and problem-solving as students enter college, post-secondary training or the world of work, Lambert said. “We want our students to be life-ready and thirst for making the world better.”
Previously, Lambert taught in Shelby County, Tennessee; in Montgomery; and at James Clemens High School. She was Liberty Middle School assistant principal.
Lambert engages assistant principals and teachers to support student activities. “We just enjoy cheering – whether it’s a band event, theatrical/choral event or sporting event. Because we have so many events every day, it’s a challenge to be present for all events,” Lambert said.
For 2016-2017, Lambert is excited about Patriot Path, a one-hour period on Wednesdays when students can choose an inspiring activity outside traditional learning. Options include student-led research, motivational speakers/authors, bio-tech/DNA research, talent performances, musical groups, horticulture and debate. The goal is “a culture of excitement … to explore or de-stress.”
In addition, students can join a collaborative study group, tutoring or quiet reading. “Students enjoy choices. With Patriot Path, students choose their path,” Lambert said.
Lambert listed Bob Jones extraordinary rankings:
* 24 National Merit Semi-Finalists – top one-half percent of U.S. high schools.
* Four U.S. Presidential Scholars.
* ‘Best of’ lists by “Newsweek,” “Washington Post,” Niche and others.
* Local to national awards in STEM, fine arts and sports.
From her teachers, Lambert best remembers her high-school basketball coach, “a harsh demander on the court, but he cared about me as a person, as he did all teammates.”
Lambert earned a bachelor’s degree at the University of Mississippi in special education and a master’s degree in administration and mild learning disabilities from Auburn University at Montgomery. Lambert holds education specialist credentials from Alabama A&M University.
Her husband Mark teaches social studies. “He’s a master storyteller and brings history to life for his students,” she said.
Their 26-year-old son Daniel is completing a master’s degree in German at the University of Nebraska and looking at doctoral programs. Daughter Shelby, 24, graduated from Samford University, worked as a nurse at the University of Alabama at Birmingham and recently enrolled in pharmacy school at Samford.
Fitness enthusiasts, the Lamberts’ favorite vacation is snow skiing, especially at Brighton, Utah. They cycle, hike and golf. She has coached softball and basketball leagues.
Sylvia and Mark have completed mission trips to Russia, Honduras, Panama and Peru. She enjoys planning large dinners on special occasions. “Really, there’s nothing I value more than spending time with my family,” Lambert said.
