July 12, 2007

Dear Scottsville Families, 

  With the first day of school still several weeks away, I thought it was important for me to send a letter of introduction before we meet in person August 22. I am honored to be joining the staff of Scottsville Elementary and am excited to work with you in an education partnership. Mrs. Jones has been an excellent educational leader at Scottsville and I look forward to continuing the work she has been doing with the staff to create the best possible learning experience for our children.  

  While I may be a new addition to our school, I have lifelong ties to Albemarle County. I was born, raised, and attended public schools in Albemarle County.  After graduating from the University of Virginia with a degree in early childhood education, I started my teaching career at Red Hill Elementary.  At Red Hill I taught kindergarten, first and second grades, and was the literacy specialist. In 2005 I became the assistant principal at Baker-Butler Elementary in the northern end of Albemarle.

  Our superintendent of schools recently shared with me some letters written by students about what they wanted in a principal.  Many of the characteristics they mentioned are also very important to me.  The most common themes students identified as desires were for a person who is fair and a good listener and problem solver. They also desired a person who was organized, a hard worker and able to create a safe learning environment.  One student wrote that the principal should show respect not only to staff and parents, but also to students.  I could not agree more. I will do my best to model these characteristics in our daily work together.

  I look forward to meeting all of you as the school year approaches and working together to make sure our children have a successful school career.  My door is always open.

  Sincerely,

  Nancy V. Teel