Meet New Monfort Elementary School Principal Karen Zimmerman

With the first day of the new school year finally upon us, your children may return to class to see some new faces. At Monfort Elementary School, they will certainly be greeted by the smiling face of the new principal, Karen Zimmerman.

Let's get to know the new principal a little better, shall we?

Message from Karen Zimmerman:

I am very proud and excited to introduce myself as the new principal of .  I have heard so many wonderful things about the children, staff and parents, and look forward to working with the entire Monfort community of learners to continue the fine tradition of educational excellence that exists in our school.

Patch:  What is your vision for the future of the district?

Zimmerman: I am totally committed to the Utica Community Schools vision that portrays what we stand for at Monfort and throughout the district–that all students will be provided a rigorous, high-quality education which will meet their individual needs and that students will be respected, encouraged and empowered to acquire the knowledge, skills and attitudes to be successful, contributing members of a diverse community and global society. 

Patch: What are your primary goals for the 2011-12 school year:

Zimmerman: 1)  To establish positive relationships with students, staff and parents that will enable them to view me as someone who cares about them and the achievement of all of our children.  To that end, I will work to secure and maintain parent and community participation in school activities that lead to increased student achievement.

2)   To work collaboratively with staff to insure that quality instruction and student achievement are top priorities in all of our school improvement initiatives.

3)   To insure that continuous improvement is guided by district and state academic standards and assessment data so that all students will meet or exceed proficiency standards in reading, writing, mathematics, science and social studies.

Patch: Are there any new policies you plan on immediately implementing? 

Zimmerman: The staff and I will work together to monitor the implementation and effectiveness of school practices and procedures, making adjustments as needed.  Parental input will also be considered.

Patch: What inspires your passion for education?

Zimmerman: My passion for education is inspired by the tremendous influence that we as educators can have in helping to spark and nurture the joy of learning in each and every one of our children.  I am highly motivated by the desire to foster a teaching and learning environment whereby “Every Child Achieves,” which is our overriding district goal.

Patch: Is there an inspiring message you would like to leave for the children?

Zimmerman: Robert Maynard Hutchins said, “The object of education is to prepare the young to educate themselves throughout their lives.”  It’s important for children and parents to know that what they are learning at Monfort is preparing them for the future.

Patch: What’s your educational background?

Zimmerman: I hold a bachelor of arts degree with a major in psychology from Oakland University, a master of arts in teaching with a major in elementary education and an education specialist certificate with a major in general administration and supervision from Wayne State University. I continue to take graduate classes at Oakland University to stay current with the latest educational practices/research.

I have been an elementary principal with the Utica Community Schools for the past six years. Prior to that I worked for Edison Schools as a principal and as an assistant principal.  In addition, I was also a reading coordinator and a certified trainer in science, social studies, and learning environment.  Previous to becoming an administrator, I taught third and fourth grades.

I am very eager to start my new position and look forward to meeting all of the students and their families.