Words by Jenny Lynn Davis | Image by Ryan McGill
At Valley Junior High, leadership is not just a concept, but a movement shaping the school’s heart and soul.
Since Trish Key stepped into her role as principal in July 2024, the school community has embraced a collective vision rooted in collaboration. With her experience and passion, Key has been a driving force in fostering a culture where everyone has the opportunity to lead and grow.
Key’s career in education spans decades, beginning as a first-grade teacher and transitioning through grades and administrative roles. After 18 years at Sumiton Middle School, nine of which were spent as assistant principal, she embraced the opportunity to lead Valley Jr. High. Although leaving a place that felt like family was bittersweet, Key found the warm, supportive community at Valley to be a blessing.
The Valley Jr. High community is filled with dedicated educators, parents, and students working together to create meaningful leadership opportunities. Their efforts focus on empowering everyone within the school and ensuring that all voices are heard and valued.
One of the key initiatives has been the formation of leadership teams for teachers, staff, students, and parents. These teams foster collaboration and provide solutions for challenges while celebrating successes together.
New grade-level and departmental teams work alongside a math-specific team to tackle state proficiency goals. These groups collaborate to develop actionable plans that enhance student outcomes while building camaraderie among the staff.
Recognizing the diverse backgrounds of Valley’s families, especially its large population of English Language Learners, the parent leadership team plays an essential role in supporting the school. These groups provide valuable insights and actively support teachers by performing out-of-classroom tasks and assisting with lunchroom supervision.
For students, leadership roles foster confidence, communication, and accountability. From mentoring younger peers to recognizing faculty through monthly “Who’s Who” awards, these initiatives teach students to lead with empathy and responsibility.
“Our K-8 structure creates a unique opportunity for older students to mentor younger ones. This creates role models and strengthens bonds within our school community,” Key says.
The leadership programs are already making a noticeable impact. Students are learning essential life skills, such as making eye contact, speaking clearly, and articulating their thoughts —qualities Key believes are crucial in today’s tech-driven world.
For teachers and parents, the opportunity to contribute and feel heard has strengthened their connection to Valley Jr. High’s mission of supporting academic excellence, character development, and work ethic.
“We want these programs to create a positive and unified culture where everyone feels invested in our success,” Key says. “It is about building something that lasts, where everyone feels valued and connected.”
Key credits Valley Jr. High’s supportive and family-like atmosphere with shaping her leadership style. She believes creating a culture of mutual respect and teamwork starts from the top and is reinforced through daily interactions.
“When I arrived, I immediately felt how much Valley means to everyone. That inspired me to be more intentional in my leadership. If I want positivity, respect, and teamwork, I need to model those traits,” she says. “I’ve been in education for years, but this role has made me more reflective. I don’t seek the spotlight; I want the recognition to go to the school, staff, and students. It’s a team effort, and I’m grateful to work with such dedicated people.”
Key says that her leadership is also deeply influenced by her family. Her husband Tim, her children Chandler and Cason, and their spouses Makenzie and Emily have supported her throughout her career, and have encouraged her commitment to education and service.
As the faculty, staff, students, and parents of Valley Jr. High continue building on these leadership efforts, the focus remains on fostering a supportive and engaged community where everyone feels valued and connected. WL