Dear Central Elementary Families,

It is with great excitement and heartfelt gratitude that I welcome you back to a new school year at Central Elementary! Whether you are returning to our wonderful school community or joining us for the first time, I am honored to serve as your new principal and to lead alongside such dedicated families, students, and staff. I bring with me 24 years of experience in education—as an elementary teacher, elementary and middle school administrator, and as a Director of Human Resources.

Throughout my career, I have remained deeply committed to fostering environments where every child feels seen, supported, and inspired to grow. At Central, my focus will be on promoting innovative teaching practices, cultivating strong and lasting relationships, and encouraging a growth mindset in every student, staff member, and family we serve.

As we begin this new chapter on the heels of being acknowledged as a 2025 California Distinguished School, Central Elementary will be aligning closely with our district’s four strategic goals:

1. Teach All Students to be Well-Rounded Learners – We are committed to providing a rich, engaging academic experience that nurtures not only academic achievement, but also creativity, critical thinking, and social-emotional growth.

2. Foster Belonging and Inclusion – Central will continue to be a safe and welcoming environment where every student and family feels a true sense of belonging, value, and respect.

3. Invest in and Secure Our Long-Term Future – We will be thoughtful stewards of our resources, ensuring that our school continues to grow and thrive for years to come.

4. Strengthen Community Collaboration – We know that our success depends on strong partnerships with families and the broader community. I look forward to working together to build those connections and support every learner.

Please take note of the following events and updates/logistics:

• Incoming Kindergarten Families: Please join PTA and I for the Incoming Kindergarten Playdate- Sunday, August 10th from 10 am to 12 noon on the Central playground. Starting at 11 am, classroom hallways will be opened and I will be leading a campus tour around 11:15 am.

• New Central Families: Please join us from 11 am to 12 noon, Sunday, August 10, to locate your student's classroom and see the campus. Hallways will be open, but individual classrooms will not closed.

• Teacher Assignments on ParentSquare: For families who complete the Student Information Update for their child by the end of the day on Thursday, August 7, you will receive your class assignment for that child on Friday, August 8. Families who complete it after August 7 (or don't complete it at all) will be notified of teacher assignments on Wednesday, August 13.

It is a privilege to be part of such a vibrant school, and I look forward to getting to know each of you as we begin this exciting year.

Warmly,

Ms. Cathreene Ingham-Watters, Principal

cingham-watters@brssd.org