Dr. Jovana Edwards

Welcome to Polo Ridge Elementary! When you enter our school, you will feel a strong sense of FAMILY! We are committed to ensuring our students’ social and emotional needs are met, which serves as the foundation for meeting their academic needs. Research shows that parent involvement directly affects a child’s success in school. I am resolved to ensure that Polo Ridge Elementary is a school community where staff members and parents work collaboratively in order to meet the needs of each child. While academic progress is extremely important, I believe the school staff is responsible for developing the whole child, including social, emotional, and physical well-being. We believe that ALL students can achieve and I am committed to working with my staff and the community to ensure that every child LOVES coming to school every day and receives the highest quality instruction possible.

I believe that relationships are at the heart of the school and I value my connections with all stakeholders. I want to take a moment to introduce myself. I am originally a “military brat” and have traveled quite a bit, but Fayetteville, NC is my claim to fame. I have been with CMS since 2001 as a teacher (2nd, 3rd, & 5th), academic facilitator, and assistant principal….all at Smithfield Elementary. I then spent 4 years at Providence High School as the assistant principal before becoming the principal at Polo Ridge in 2016. I received my undergraduate degree in Elementary Education from UNC-Charlotte. I also received my National Board Certification in Early Childhood. In 2008, I earned my Master’s Degree in Educational Leadership from Gardner-Webb University. I then received my Doctorate from Wingate University. As you can see, I love to learn and am a life-long learner.

I have a nine-year-old daughter, Melana! She is super sweet with a side of sassiness! Mike (my better half), Melana, our Goldendoodle, Thor, and I live close by in Waxhaw, NC. I am a die-hard Carolina Tar Heels fan, as you will be able to tell the minute you step foot in my office! I enjoy eating out, shopping, traveling, and hanging out with my family in my spare time!

I am proud and honored to serve the Polo Ridge Elementary School community and CMS!!! #ponypride

Together in Education,

Dr. Jovana Edwards, Principal