As principal, I see my prime responsibility is to continue to build and inspire a community of lifelong learners: to continue to enhance this enriched learning experience, to build on the many successes that have become a tradition at Highland Oaks, and to ensure a joyful learning environment for our students.

Another responsibility is to continue to facilitate challenging work with rigor and high expectations for students academically as well as with strong character development; to build independence, responsibility and respect in our students. Many of our teachers have shared Coach John Wooden’s book, Inch and Miles, with their classes. Coach Wooden provides us with instructive life lessons within a 15 block pyramid of success. Using a magic silver whistle, a mouse and an inchworm, he teaches us that “success isn’t having trophies or the most toys. It’s trying to be the best you can be. When trying your best, success comes your way,” writes Coach Wooden. An example of his blocks are “Hard work: Failing to prepare is preparing to fail” and “Be confident: Believe in you!”

Parents can help in this as they are the primary teachers of our children:

Teach and model – friendship, loyalty, team spirit, organizational skills, following the rules, common courtesy and kindness, cooperation, taking responsibility for our own actions, saying "excuse me" or "I am sorry" when appropriate whether driving in the car, waiting in line at Costco or speaking on the phone to an uninvited sales call. At school we also regularly expect and promote character traits through teacher modeling, our character of the month activities and regular classroom discussions.

Highland Oaks has also taken on the charge of challenging our students and teachers by developing a purposeful learning environment that is conducive to developing scholars. A sophisticated concept that strives to strengthen students’ skills - as we know:

Please join our enthusiastic efforts as we continue to challenge ourselves and our students - to further develop in the spirit of continuous growth and academic achievement. We deeply appreciate and revel in your interest, participation, enthusiasm and support of Highland Oaks and, most importantly, sharing your incredible students with us.

Wishing you and your family a productive and joyful school year,

                                      Dr. Ilene L. Anderson

                                      Principal