GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (GRPS) – Westwood Middle School’s Interim Principal is a GRPS veteran with a focus on building relationships with scholars, families, staff, and community.
“I choose education every day,” Erica Dams shared.
She spent nine years teaching at Harrison Park Academy before transitioning to building leadership. She was Assistant Principal at Westwood Middle School before being promoted to Interim Principal for the 2024-25 school year.
“It's challenging. Every day is something new. The reason that I choose to go to Westwood Middle every single day is the families, the relationships that we build,” she explained. “Kids can't be successful without those relationships. Staff can't be successful without those relationships. They can't teach someone or reach someone without building that connection.”
Dams is committed to ensuring Westwood Middle School is a place where scholars can prepare for the future.
“I want them to understand that while they're here at school, this is a safe place for them to learn and to grow and to really level up and get what they need to be successful at the next level, whether that's seventh grade, eighth grade, or even high school.”
At every step in her career, Dams says her goal is to ensure a sense of belonging for those around her.
“Once you're part of Team Dams, you're always part of Team Dams.”
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