Welcome to Paradise Elementary School!

My name is Sherry Dardar. I am so blessed to serve and lead Paradise Elementary School. I have served under some amazing leaders and have gathered so much experience from each of them. My husband, Jake, and I have been in youth ministry since we met back in 1997. I have two adult children, a son-in-law, one granddaughter, and a grandson coming in January of 2027. 

I have been an educator since 1997. I began my journey for the first two years in a private school, teaching 1st and 2nd grade. After becoming a mother for the first time, I stayed home with our baby. In 2000, I began teaching again and building curriculum at Avoyelles Public Charter School. While there for five years, I taught 3rd through 5th grade. In 2005, I transferred to the Rapides Parish School System. For 10 years I taught 4th grade at Phoenix Magnet School. 

In 2015, I accepted the job as a lead teacher at Tioga Junior High. In 2017, I received my Master’s in Educational Leadership. In 2019, I stepped into the assistant principal position. I was given many responsibilities and opportunities to grow my leadership skills. I served as one of the assistant principals since then, leading and supporting our ELA and Social Studies teachers. 

As the new principal of Paradise Elementary, I am honored to join a school community dedicated to helping every child succeed. My mission is to foster a culture where every student is valued for who they are, inspired to reach their highest potential, and empowered to become confident, compassionate, lifelong learners who make a positive impact on their community and the world.

I believe this mission begins with our faculty and staff. By valuing, inspiring, and empowering our educators, we create the foundation for student success. Supporting our teachers is one of my highest priorities, and I am committed to providing the encouragement, resources, and collaboration needed for every member of our team to thrive. Together, we will build a positive, supportive learning environment where both students and staff can grow and excel.