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.

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

Presentations/Meeting Slides