"School is both a mirror and a window. You should be able to see people that look like you, see experiences that look like you. But it also needs to be a window—you should be able to learn from other people and see their perspectives.

We are looking at the students in front of us beyond the numbers and identifying truly what it is that they need. It is our responsibility, beyond whatever the circumstances are, to hold the bar high and ensure we are pouring into that student to give them everything that they deserve.

As principal, my commitment to education and the success of our students is my driving force. I have always believed that schools should be more than just places where students learn academics; they should be environments where children feel safe, supported, and encouraged to develop into well-rounded individuals. I work every day to build strong, lasting relationships with both students and staff because I know that when trust is at the heart of what we do, everyone thrives. My goal is to create a school culture that is inclusive, respectful, and focused on growth—both for our students and for ourselves as educators.

Listening is an essential part of my leadership. I take time to hear from students, parents, and staff, and I use that feedback to guide the direction of our school. I truly believe that collaboration is key in meeting the diverse needs of our community. I’m always striving to find ways to improve, whether it’s staying updated on the latest research in education, finding new ways to engage students, or supporting our teachers in their professional growth. My role as principal goes beyond administration—I am here to guide, support, and inspire others to do their best work.

For me, success is a growth mindset. Even if we got to 100% of kids meeting expectations, there's still more we can always do to up it. As long as everyone coming into the building is willing to reflect on the day before and have a plan of how they're going to improve today, that's success.

Every day, I am reminded of how powerful education can be in changing lives. I am proud to be part of a team that is dedicated to providing every student with the opportunity to succeed, whether it’s through rigorous academics, creative extracurricular programs, or a caring environment where they feel seen and valued. I am committed to ensuring that every student at our school has the tools and support they need to realize their dreams.

My hope is that our kids really get all they need now so that when they're at a point where they have to make decisions about their lives, they actually have options and can choose to do whatever their heart desires."

- Ornella Parker