When the alarm goes off at 4:15 A.M., Elizabeth Antos rolls out of bed and starts a day that would make most people exhausted just reading about: work out, get the kids ready for school, head to work, coach the LPHS cheer team, and head home to be mom again. For Antos, however, it’s all in a day’s work for this La Porte County Life in the Spotlight.
Antos, a 2001 Slicer grad, is the newly named principal at Kingsbury Elementary. The transition from teacher to administrator happened quickly for her. In less than one calendar year, she went to 4th-grade teacher at Kingsford Heights to assistant principal at LPHS and then to her current role as principal. The jump from LPHS to Kingsbury was not a sure move at first for Antos.
“I had only been at the high school one year and loved working there. When I found out about the open position, I quickly called Mr. Tonagel. I had such a great year last school year, and I was excited about the things to come at LPHS. Mr. Tonagel was very supportive, though. He advised me never to turn down an opportunity to grow. He knows my passion for the elementary level and was very encouraging,” Antos said.
A true leader, Antos quickly dove into her new role. With no time to spare, she has been hard at work acclimating herself to her new staff and students.
“The first few days have been awesome! The staff has been incredibly welcoming, and I am in awe of their skills and dedication. They work extremely hard, and it is an absolute joy to see them with their students,” Antos said.
Even way before her quick rise up the ranks, it was clear early on for Antos that she’d be spending life beyond her teen years in a school. She grew up reading books to her stuffed animals and had a true passion for education and kids; without thought, she’s always put others before herself.
“Service motivates me. I love helping people. I really value relationships with others, and I think that’s motivating,” Antos said.
Even though most of Antos’ time is monopolized by school events and duties, her most prized is spent with her husband and three daughters. It seems as though her girls have inherited their endless energy from their mother.
“I love spending time with my family and kids. Dance parties in the living room are my favorite time. I don’t know where they get their moves; it has to be from Kyle,” Antos said.
It’s easy to see why Elizabeth Antos is a bright spot in the community. She isn’t afraid of working hard, and in the end, all LPCSC parents and community members can rest assured that her heart is always in the right spot.
“I make decisions based on what I think is best for the kid. It may not seem like that from the outside, but the decisions I make are what’s best for kids,” Antos said.