West Seattle schools: Arbor Heights Elementary’s new principal

A new principal has been announced for Arbor Heights Elementary School, less than one month after current principal Dr. Carol Coram announced she’s moving to an assistant-principal job at Denny International Middle School. From the letter going home with AH students today, from West Seattle’s executive director of schools Aurora Lora:

I am excited today to announce the appointment of Christy Collins as your new principal, effective July 1. Ms. Collins comes to Seattle Public Schools from the Lake Washington School District and brings more than 29 years of experience leading faculty and students. She is an instructional leader and has made a lifetime commitment to quality education. She is well-known for her work in building partnerships with the community and I know she will be a great fit for the Arbor Heights families, students and staff.

Ms. Collins served as principal of (McAuliffe) Elementary in Sammamish from 1999-2006 and was principal of Rockwell Elementary in Redmond from 1993-1999. Most recently, she served as Special Education Coordinator for the Lake Washington School District for the past four years. In this role, she guided and directed all aspects of administration of special education programs for the district.

She started her career as an elementary special education and general education teacher, and holds a Bachelor of Arts in K-8 education from Western Washington University and a Master of Education in Education Administration and Principal Certification from Western Washington University.

Ms. Collins was selected after a hiring process that included input from staff and families in the Arbor Heights community. The selection team committee was impressed with her curriculum expertise, special education background, and experience with Reader’s and Writer’s Workshop. Please join me in welcoming Christy to Arbor Heights and Seattle Public Schools!

According to the AH PTSA website, Collins will be at the school tomorrow morning to meet parents. Also changing principals for next school year is Lafayette Elementary, as reported here yesterday.

2 Replies to "West Seattle schools: Arbor Heights Elementary's new principal"

  • AHmom June 16, 2011 (8:53 pm)

    I think I can speak for many when I say AH is ready for positive change. New leadership and collaboration amongst staff will be a refreshing improvement in the coming years! I wish Dr. Coram well in her new venture at Denny and also welcome Ms. Collins with enthusiasm. I am excited to meet her tomorrow!

  • AH Parent June 17, 2011 (12:57 pm)

    She’ll be a wonderful addition to the Arbor Heights Community. This morning she met with staff, parents and students and everyone is very excited about her arrival. I’m feeling really good about Arbor Heights and proud that our family is part of this community.

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