In June of 2018 Carla Graves was awarded the opportunity to be the first principal of the new North Park Community school. Graves applied her experience in various educational roles in order to open NPCS that September. 

As a current member of the North Buffalo community, Graves embraces the community school model that NPCS follows. Working alongside various community groups, families, and professionals Graves understands the shared commitment to the youth of the community. “It is most important to work alongside my fellow educational professionals at NPCS to ensure they are supported so they can provide the best educational experience for our youth. We strive to provide a nurturing, equitable environment for all children; we are empowering our future.”

Graves began her career as a Middle School math teacher at Buffalo United Charter School in 2007 serving in grades 6, 7, and 8. In 2012, she moved into the Assistant Principal position and oversaw Special Education. 

Graves had the pleasure of joining Buffalo Public Schools as an Assistant Principal at North Park Academy in January 2014, where she oversaw the School Improvement Grant and lead grades five through eight. 

Prior to her tenure as the principal at NPCS, she served as a Supervisor in the Office of School Leadership in 2017; providing support to various BPS building leaders.

“As a school leader, I am working with the NPCS community to foster independent learners who feel supported by all members in their school. We strive to challenge each student, provide them with opportunities to increase their social emotional well-being, and increase their empathy through anti-bias lessons. It is important to be part of a school that you would send your own child to. I am fortunate to send both of my children to NPCS.” 

Graves earned her B.S. in Elementary Education from Canisius College, her M.S.Ed. in both Differentiated Instruction and Education Leadership from Canisius College. She holds her certification in Gifted Education, Childhood Education, School Building Leadership, and School District Leadership. 

It is with great enthusiasm and excitement that I write this letter of introduction as the Assistant Principal of North Park Community School #50. This is a very special opportunity for me because I have been able to teach at this great school and have already learned so much about our students. I am truly honored to accept this role.  I look forward to supporting Mrs. Graves in continuing to grow this amazing school community. 

For the past fifteen years, I have been a general education teacher and now administrator working across a multitude of grades within the city of Buffalo. I have studied the aspects of Administration and developed my leadership skills at Buffalo State College while completing my School District and School Building Leader certification.  My academic background also includes a Master’s of Science in Special Education from Buffalo State College and a Bachelor’s of Science in Early Childhood and Childhood Education from Canisius College.

My decision to become an administrator came from my desire to make a positive impact on an entire school community.  As the Assistant Principal, I will work diligently with Mrs. Graves, our faculty and staff, and community to carry out the vision and mission of NPCS.  This role will provide me with the chance to work collaboratively with teachers on a daily basis, while also remaining connected to our students' growth and learning that takes place in the classroom.

The partnership between home and school should inspire confidence in students to use their powers to shape their future and the future of our community and world.  During the course of the year, it is my hope that we will work together to provide our students the best opportunities.  As Assistant Principal, my door is always open, and I welcome your conversation and collaboration throughout this year.  I look forward to celebrating our collective successes during the school year.