I Choose SPS: Meet Angie Carder, Principal at Gray Elementary School.

 

“I’ve always loved being around kids. Ever since I was young, I found joy in babysitting, teaching Sunday School and helping with Vacation Bible School. As I grew older, that passion only deepened. I realized how meaningful it is to help children learn, grow and discover their own strengths. Working with kids isn’t just something I enjoy — it truly fills my heart and gives purpose to what I do every day.

I have so many wonderful memories from my years at Wanda Gray. Something that stands out is the last day of school each year, when we do the Clap Out for our 4th-grade students heading to Wilson’s Creek. That moment is filled with so many emotions — joy, pride and a little bit of sadness — all reflecting the love and community of being a student at Wanda Gray. The relationships built are so evident at that moment, making saying goodbye to another group of students both meaningful and emotional. 

SPS is truly home for me. I am an SPS graduate and have spent my entire educational career within Springfield Public Schools — starting as a teacher, then serving as an assistant principal, and now as a principal. I’ve been fortunate to grow my professional capacity in SPS, supported by an incredible Professional Learning Department, outstanding supervisors and dedicated colleagues who have all contributed to my leadership journey.”

- Angie Carder, principal at Wanda Gray Elementary School