Dear Hogan Cedars Families,

It is with great pleasure and enthusiasm that I write this letter of introduction to you as the new principal at Hogan Cedars Elementary.  I am truly honored to become part of the Hogan Cedars community, which has already given me a warm welcome!  In the interactions I’ve had with staff, students and families, it’s become abundantly clear that this school is a unique and special place.

Professionally, I possess over 25 years of experience in the field of education and am licensed as an Elementary Teacher and School Principal.  However, it may be more important for you to know that I am the parent of a beautiful daughter and a grandmother to a spirited three year old granddaughter.  I fully understand the challenges and rewards you face every day as you work to ensure your child has the best educational experience.  One of the most important aspects of my work at Hogan Cedars Elementary will be building strong relationships with students, teachers, and families.  You will find me in the hallways, classrooms, and on the playground getting to know your child(ren).  My passion has been and always will be educating students.  With that in mind, you can expect that I will work diligently with teachers to make sure our students are exposed to curriculum and instruction that is both engaging and challenging. 

This summer, I have been spending my time getting to know the Hogan Cedars community.  In doing so, I’ve learned that Hogan Cedars is a place where strong connections are made between home and school.  We are committed to developing the whole child. Our school motto continues to be Engaging Hearts and Minds.  We want all students to engage their hearts as they show kindness, care, compassion, and friendship towards others.  We also want children to engage their minds as they develop skills in reading, writing, math, science, and social studies.  Art is in the middle of the word heart and we believe art is a creative expression and outlet for all of us.  Social/emotional growth, academic success, and art experiences are all important!  

As we all enter the upcoming school year, we do so with high levels of uncertainty due to the current international crisis we all know as Covid-19. This has affected all of us in so many ways. Our students and community as a whole have had to encounter many hardships as a result. However, this will not deter our mission to make this school year the best one ever.  I plan on working with parents, teachers, students and the entire Hogan Cedar community to ensure that our students are safe and learning at high levels. Together we will continue to provide experiences that are rigorous and relevant with relationships based on trust to prepare students for their future endeavors.  

As your new principal, it is important to me to greet everyone who enters the school with the utmost respect.  Please feel free to contact me to discuss any concerns you may have or any points of pride you would like to share.  I have an open-door policy and welcome your input and ideas. 

Educationally yours,

Heidi Blakley