Principal Information
Dr. Thamesia Handford
Welcome to Pershing Elementary where teachers and staff are committed to culture, collaboration, and compassion for the students and the community we serve.
It is with great enthusiasm and excitement that I introduce myself as the proud principal of Pershing Elementary School. I am truly honored to be entering into my fourth year at Pershing as the principal and my 20th year in education. I bring the following experience: I was a second-grade teacher, fifth-grade teacher, Math and English Language Arts Resource Teacher, behavior specialist, program specialist, and an assistant principal.
Deciding to become an administrator came from a strong desire to make a positive impact on an entire school community as well as a desire to build the capacity of teachers and students. I believe that it is all of our responsibility to prepare the next generation of critical thinkers so that they will meet the challenges in the 21st century.
The elementary school years are important and critical times for students. What happens during these years will have a lasting impression on their growth and development. My goal as principal is to assist in the leadership that will facilitate a school environment to provide the best possible academic instruction to meet the needs of all students. The educational program must be academically challenging, engaging, promote further learning, and encourage the exploration of new ideas.
I am confident that our school will be a place where our students can learn and grow academically as well as socially. I believe education is the greatest equalizer and my job as a school principal is to ensure each student have access to a high-quality education. I believe all children can learn and benefit from an active, engaging, and rigorous learning environment. Parents, teachers, support staff, community and administration all play a part in helping our students meet and exceed our expectations of them.
Pershing is Wild About Learning,
Dr. Thamesia Handford