In a historic leap, Treadway Elementary School in Leesburg has catapulted from a C to an A rating in Florida’s school accountability system, the only traditional public school in Lake County to jump two full letter grades this year. At the heart of the school’s success is Principal Dr. Venessa King, a veteran educator whose passion for students and commitment to excellence have turned potential into performance.

Under King’s leadership, Treadway Elementary earned 85 total points on the state’s new scoring scale, marking a significant achievement in academic growth and student proficiency. The A grade not only reflects student success in English language arts, math, science, and learning gains, but it also signals a dramatic shift in the school culture, one Dr. King knew was possible.

(The little school that could! Treadway Elementary in Leesburg went from a C rated school to an A rated school in just one year.)

“My goal has always been to create a space of safety, trust, and teamwork,” says King, who calls herself the school’s “Mama Bear.” “We are deeply committed to the well being of our teachers. We want to be very nurturing. Being a teacher right now is not always the easiest thing so we make sure to put things in place to make them excited to come to school.”

With 23 years in education, 22 of them in Lake County, Dr. King brings a wealth of experience to the role. A graduate of Florida A&M University, she went on to earn her Master’s, Specialist, and Doctorate degrees from the American College of Education. Her career has been decorated with accolades, including multiple Teacher of the Year honors, a Lake County Superintendent Achievement Award, and recognition as a High Impact Teacher for four consecutive years.

“I tell my teachers all the time, I am a teacher first. I don’t ever want to forget I was there. If they have any questions we work on things together. It’s an open and honest program,” says Dr. King.

(Treadway Elementary School Gained 85 Total Points and Jumped from a C to an A school.)

Before taking the helm at Treadway, King taught 3rd through 5th grade and served as an intervention teacher and curriculum resource teacher at Clermont Elementary. She began her journey at Treadway as assistant principal seven years ago, and her deep roots in classroom instruction have remained central to her approach.

Beyond her educational expertise, Dr. King brings a vibrant personality to the school community. A former athlete who played volleyball, soccer, and ran track at a national level, she often incorporates music and movement into the school day. “Music and energy help students stay engaged and motivated, especially when the learning gets tough,” she said.

As a mother of three, Dr. King’s nurturing spirit extends beyond the classroom walls. That same spirit is felt in every hallway at Treadway. This year was no exception as the teachers, parents and students did an outstanding job at proving what Treadway was capable of. “I just want to say Treadway is one team with one dream and one goal, we are maximizing potential.” says Dr. King.

“Our school motto is ‘Take Action… On Our Road to Greatness,’” King said. “ It is my pledge to work hard for each and every one of our teachers, staff, students and families while supporting the motto of our school.”

This is a massive success story. We are so proud of everyone at Treadway Elementary who supported the school in earning an A rating. This is not an easy accomplishment and it goes to show that strong leadership, dedicated teachers, students and parents can really make a difference! Way to go Treadway!!