School is starting back up, and as families prepare to send their little one off to school, they may feel a range of emotions from excited to anxious. Because of this, it’s important for families to feel comfortable with the school employees that they are sending their little one to school with. One of the most influential people in an elementary school is the principal. We talked with Principal of Harvest Elementary, Emily Sickler, to help you get to know her.
Educational background
Sickler was a graduate of Saline Area Schools and has spent her whole life in the Ann Arbor Area. She earned her undergraduate degree in elementary education and Masters Degree in leadership both from the University of Michigan.
Sickler spent 9 years teaching in the Saline school district in grades 1st, 3rd and 5th. She believes that her time that she spent teaching is extra valuable in her current position as principal, “I loved all of my time in the classroom so I really try to spend as much time as I can in classrooms or talking to teachers…because really even though I am in this role I believe in myself as an educator.”
After her time teaching she took her first administrative role at Saline Middle School as assistant principal. Sickler said about this role, “I wasn’t really sure what I was going to think of middle schoolers because I had never taught that old of students before, but they just have a great sense of humor and are delightful to be around.”
Harvest Elementary School
Sickler’s journey with Harvest Elementary School began in the 2019-2020 school year. She says some of her favorite parts of being in this role are,
“I love the morning line up when I get to see all of the students and the families. I love being able to support my staff members with looking at data…” she continues, “I love when I can just pop into a classroom and just sort of be engaged. So if that’s Kindergarten activity time and I’m playing in the kitchen or if there’s a movement break, or if students are excited about sharing some of their learning.”
Sickler also shared that she knows that for many young students and their families, Harvest Elementary is their first school experience. She emphasized how important she feels it is to be able to walk alongside them in this new experience.
Sickler has also been working on a few goals for the school. She has worked with other school personnel to develop a ‘social thinking language’ that every staff member is trained in. This helps every adult react to situations in a similar way and provides comfort and consistency to students. Sickler also shared that every room has a calm down basket that students are welcome to use. The building is also updating their outdoor playground to be more inclusive and have updated items for students to enjoy.
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Personal life
Sickler lives in Ann Arbor with her partner Jason and their 2 dogs. In her free time she enjoys walking her dogs, reading, playing pickleball, and cheering on University of Michigan sports–especially women’s basketball! She also loves to spend time with her mom, who was a Principal in Saline for 30 years.
Sickler’s advice for families
“I know that there are lots of readers from lots of different school districts…know that wherever your child lands is going to be a great place,”
“…I think sometimes you can get caught up on online this one data point that shows this school over this school, but educators in this area are here because we want to support students. Every school might not look exactly the same, but to believe that in between these four walls there are so many adults that love and care and are champions for students. So you just want to believe that in your heart.”
Get to Know the Harvest Elementary School Principal: Emily Sickler
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