I write to you humbled and honored to be working in partnership with you as the new Assistant Principal of your elementary school. Each learning community is unique in its own ways and I look forward to growing and learning more from each of you during my years of service to your community.

This coming school year will mark my 19th year in public education. My educational experiences include Eastern Michigan University(B.S. in Elementary Education) and Concordia University (M.S. in Educational Leadership expected Fall, 2021). My experiences in before and after school childcare, Special Education Paraprofessional, English Language Arts Teacher, and as a Behavior Intervention Specialist have allowed for me to gain insight and perspective surrounding the varied needs of a school community.

During my leadership work on the district’s SEL & Wellness Team and building based Equity Teams, the philosophy that the grown-ups in a child’s life are critical partners and that each child must feel seen, heard, and not only understood, but empathized with has led my work. It is my mission to affirm and value the cultural identity of each child. This provides a learning environment where students can feel comfortable as risk-takers, are able to express themselves each day, and can meet the high expectations that they set for themselves.

On a personal note, the Ann Arbor Community is near and dear to me, as I am a member myself. My partner, Alin and I have been residents of Ann Arbor for the last ten years. Alin enjoys creating and repairing items that some would consider long forgotten such as his old pick-up truck. I enjoy tending to my freshwater fish tank and the many houseplants I have. We both enjoy spending quality time with our kindergartner, Calin. As a family, we love gardening and traveling to Romania to visit with family and friends.

I look forward to working with Mrs. Clinkscale, staff, and each member of the King community to continue to provide children with the opportunity to grow in their enthusiasm for learning and life, exploration of their interests, and understanding of the world around us with a caring and reflective outlook. 

Warmest Regards,

Samantha