Freeman accepts assistant principal role at Rainbow
MADISON – Rainbow Elementary School is welcoming Demetria Freeman as its new assistant principal.
Freeman’s interest in the Rainbow opening peaked after serving as an additional assistant principal at Heritage Elementary School last semester. She feels thrilled to work with principal Brian Givens; they were members on the Educator Effectiveness Committee.
“This opportunity seemed like perfect timing and fit, because of my knowledge of instruction, professional development, response to intervention, special education and helping to nurture positive school culture/relationships,” Freeman said. She will coordinate textbooks, transportation and discipline concerns.
To serve as Heritage’s assistant principal, Freeman received Alabama State Department of Education’s Principal Residency Grant. “An invaluable experience. I learned so much working alongside Dr. Georgina Nelson and Mrs. Nicole Phillips,” she said.
Previously, Freeman worked as Heritage’s counselor, along with jobs as instructional partner, reading coach and special education teacher.
Freeman believes all children can learn and succeed, especially when teachers use various learning styles and strategies. Freeman constantly strives to help students grow academically, socially and emotionally. As a disciplinarian, she is consistent and fair so students can grow and learn from their mistakes.
In 1998, she moved to this area to attend Alabama A&M University. “I absolutely love the Madison community. It’s such a wonderful place to raise my children,” Freeman said.
At Alabama A&M, she received a bachelor’s degree in speech language pathology and a master’s degree in special education. Freeman earned guidance and counseling certification at University of West Alabama, educational specialist credentials at Middle Tennessee State University and instructional leadership certification at Jacksonville State University.
“I’ll never forget my very first principal, Dr. Valya Lee, at Kemp Elementary in Hampton, Ga. She was always very professional. Not only did she set very high expectations for all teachers and students, she equipped us with tools and knowledge necessary to meet expectations,” Freeman said.
“Mrs. Lee continuously inspected what she expected; that played a major role in my growth as a first-year teacher. These are all characteristics I hope to bring to Rainbow,” Freeman said.
Demetria’s husband Henry works as a fireman in Huntsville. Their three-year-old twins, Jordan and Jacob, will attend Lindsey Lane Christian Academy this fall.
She is a member of St. Luke Christian Church in Huntsville, Alpha Kappa Alpha and Huntsville Area Moms of Multiples.
“I’m excited to work with the students, faculty/staff and parents at Rainbow!” Freeman said. “I believe there are great things in store for us this year and beyond.”
