Northlake Elementary School Community,
It is with mixed emotions that I share this message. After much reflection, I have decided to step down as principal of Northlake Elementary at the end of this school year.
I came to Northlake twelve years ago as a new administrator and have learned so much along the way. I have learned about the rich sense of community in Lake Highlands and that relationships really are everything. I have recruited and hired some amazing teachers and have had the privilege to teach alongside them. We weathered a global pandemic and virtual teaching, have grown our PTA, participated in district and community events and added a school garden. I am so proud of all we have accomplished together! You all have been my family for over a decade and there aren’t enough words to say how much I will miss all of you.
As I look toward retirement in the not-so-distant future, I am ready to slow down a little bit. I am going to move back into a teaching role that will allow me to continue working with kids while having more time off in the summer and a little less responsibility. I’m ready to spend more time with my family and friends and maybe travel a little bit. I hope it goes without saying that Northlake will always be in my heart and I’m a better person because of all of you and my time here.
RISD will immediately begin the process of identifying the next principal for Northlake. The process will begin with the creation of a reflector committee of staff and parents to create a principal profile that will be used in the selection process. If you would like to serve on this committee, please reach out to Mrs. Bates at Jennie.Bates@risd.org by Friday, May 2.
Again, it has been my privilege to serve the Northlake community and you will always be in my heart.
Sincerely,
Mary Kellagher
Principal
Northlake Elementary
