New principal has a strong vision for Roosevelt High School
Embarking on her new role to transform the school's energy and make it a holistic environment for learners and staff, new Roosevelt High School principal Cristèl Venter has definite plans.
Roosevelt High School (RHS) has appointed their new principal Cristèl Venter, marking a milestone in her 18-and-a-half-year journey.
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Venter began her career at RHS as a newly-qualified educator. She rose through the ranks, serving as a grade manager and head of department (HOD) early in her career. She was also involved in numerous extracurricular activities, which she said reinforced her bond with the school. “My blood, sweat, and tears are part of the halls and heartbeat of RHS.”
Expressing a deep connection to the school, she stated that becoming the principal is one of the greatest honours of her life. “From my first day, Roosevelt was not just a place of work; it became a home.”
She describes herself as a situational leader, one who is adaptable to the unique challenges and personalities within the school. “In a school of over 2 000 individuals, one-size-fits-all leadership does not work. My approach is characterised by being approachable, supportive, and fair.”
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Venter voiced a strong vision, which is rooted in the staff, learners, and the broader school community. Her goal is achieving a 100% pass rate, prioritising the importance of quality over quantity and striving for quality and meaningful achievements.
During her five months as acting principal, she witnessed a transformation in the school’s energy and spirit, which she attributes to fostering a supportive and joyful environment for staff. “Happy teachers change lives,” she said, expressing the correlation between teacher satisfaction and student success.
In building a strong school culture, she believes that every student should feel a sense of belonging and connection to the school. “We are adding new activities, like pom-poms to encourage spirit and involvement, while also praising the staff’s initiative in volunteering for extracurricular activities.”
With her taking the helm at Roosevelt High School, Venter is committed to create a space where students and staff can thrive.
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