Ms. York, Principal

Hello Future & Current Thurston Families! 

My name is Natasha York and I am proud to be the principal of Thurston Elementary School.  There are so many wonderful things that I would love to share with you about our amazing school but let me begin by telling you a little about myself.  I am what people like to call a "Homegrown".  What does that mean?  It means that I have truly experienced everything that AAPS has had to offer!

 I began my journey at Mack Elementary School, followed by Slauson Middle School and on to Community High School. And while Ann Arbor provided me with a wonder first start at life, there was still much for me to explore and do after high school.  In hopes of experiencing and growing more I ventured off to Baton Rouge, LA where I attended Southern University and A & M College. There I obtained not only a degree in Psychology but developed the love for working with and helping others. Still not quite ready to come back home, I moved to Houston, TX where I obtained my certification in early childhood where I taught Preschool/Kindergarten.  After two years of southern hospitality, I decided to head back to Ann Arbor. Upon returning I was hired into the Ann Arbor Public Schools system.  During my 9 year stay I was fortunate to have taught 2nd, 3rd, and 5th grades.  During this time I also received my Master's Degree in the Art of Teaching and Curriculum Design.  

I have to say that through it all, there has not been a grade I didn't enjoy.  In 2011, I was fortunate enough to be hired as the Principal of Thurston Elementary School.  For the last 10 years, Thurston community has not only become my home but also heron my family.  

On behalf of the Thurston Staff, WELCOME to the most wonderful and amazing experience Ann Arbor has to offer!  We look forward to all of the fantastic memories we will share and create together.  

"A Heron's a Heron, No Matter How Small"

Ms. York