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Letter to the editor

What's in a name?

She channeled love of education

By MEAGHAN FORBES
Published July 2, 2004

Grace M. Ippolito Elementary School

As principal of Alafia Elementary, she greeted students with hugs.

At home, she did the same with her two sons.

Grace M. Ippolito had an undying commitment to her 40-year profession. She brought love to her extended family within the Hillsborough County School District by way of instruction.

An elementary school on Falkenburg Road in Riverview is named in her honor.

Ippolito started her education career in 1959 as a teacher at Ybor Elementary. She spent 10 years teaching before leaving the classroom to become a curriculum specialist, where she worked with teachers to develop new materials for instructing students.

In 1977, Ippolito received her first appointment as principal at McFarlane Park Elementary. Yet it wasn't until 1987 that she could tout the privilege of being a school's first principal - the person responsible for shaping a school's character, mission and goals. At Alafia Elementary, Ippolito made a lasting impression.

"My (focus) was always in curriculum," Ippolito said. "Dads would come in during their lunch break to promote reading."

Perhaps having such buy-in from parents is what made Ippolito the admired educator she is today.

For her successful efforts, Ippolito was appointed general director of area schools in 1992. Then, assistant superintendent for instruction in 1998. She retired June 23, 1999, three years before a new school crept up and needed a name.

With more than 15 recommendations, Ippolito was bestowed with an honor she describes as the most humbling a human can experience.

[Last modified July 1, 2004, 11:25:16]