We sat down with Elementary Principal Rachel Harvey to get to know her before the school year begins!

What are you most excited about as you begin this new chapter?
I know it sounds corny, but I’m excited about everything! Getting to know everyone in the building, meeting students and their families, and being a part of what makes Ellis great. This school and the community have great reputations, which makes my job even more exciting. I’m also looking forward to attending some of the fun events I’ve heard of, like the Trunk or Treat, Kindergarten Polar Express, and the Music in Our Schools concerts. Most of all, since I’m a teacher at heart, I’m excited to see students smiling in the hallways and finding joy in learning.

What is one thing you hope students will learn about you this year?
I hope students see that I have the biggest heart for people and seeing them succeed. At every age and every grade, it’s my favorite thing. I want to hear all about their successes and the challenges they overcome to get there. Whether it’s a great test grade after a few tough ones, scoring a goal at a soccer game, or even a good behavior day after some iffy ones. I hope students will come to me with the good and the bad, knowing that no matter what, I’ll be their biggest supporter and cheerleader.

What does a great elementary school look and feel like to you?
A great elementary school is a place where every child feels like they belong. Where everyone feels supported and like they’re part of something important. It’s fun, joy, happiness, friendships, smiles, and a sense of safety all wrapped up into one.

How do you hope to build relationships with students and families?
By attending everything! Having conversations, both serious and casual, getting to know people through events and activities, and being in places where I can build those relationships.

What is one thing you will always make time for, no matter how busy your day gets?
I will always stop and help someone who needs it. Being accessible as a leader is important to me. If a teacher needs help in a classroom, or a student needs their shoe tied in a hallway, I’m there. Also, I always have time for a high five!

What do you hope to continue?
I’m looking forward to continuing the great work around Zones of Regulation and Bookworms. I’ll be keeping the Monday night video updates alive this year, and continue to be a friendly hello and goodbye for students at arrival and dismissal. I plan to build on the community and family partnerships that are already established, and I hope to get outside for recess, too!

How have you been preparing for the upcoming school year?
So far, I’ve been meeting with other administrators and staff members to get adjusted to the routines and systems we already have in place. I’m familiarizing myself with the building (it can feel like a maze sometimes!) and studying the yearbook so I recognize faces and names on the first day. I’ve also been working with our incredible office staff on the master schedule, reviewing our safety procedures, and preparing to bring back the annual hallway walk…I can’t wait for school to start!

What were you like as an elementary school student?
I was very quiet and shy, but I always followed directions and followed the rules. I struggled with math in school, and I always tell my students I had to work very hard at it (and still do!). Reading and art were my favorite subjects.

If you could go back and give your elementary-school self one piece of advice, what would it be?
I would tell myself to be brave and trust your great ideas. Don’t worry what everyone thinks about your ideas, because there will be a few people who love them, and those are your people who will support you in everything going forward.

What do you like to do outside of school?
I enjoy hosting any kind of dinner party (with a theme, of course), cooking, and going on cruises. Most of all, I love family time - spending time with my husband, Travis, our two-year-old daughter, Evelyn, our dog Lola, and our two cats (Big and Little, named appropriately) brings me so much joy!