May 30, 2024
Dear Alice Birney IB Elementary Community,
It is with great excitement that I introduce myself as the new Principal of Alice Birney IB Elementary for the 2024-2025 School year. Although my official start date is July 22nd, I plan to visit Birney before the end of this school year to meet some of you. I will say there is no way I can fill Ms. Amanda’s shoes, but I will do my best to maintain the spirit of her leadership as I transition into this role.
My decision to take on this role was deeply influenced by my personal connection to Birney. This school holds a special place in my heart, not only because it was my former elementary school but also because I was the Birney IB Coordinator from 2016 to 2019. I have worked alongside the Birney teachers, and they are passionate about what they do. It is a true honor to return to the place where my passion for education was ignited. I am privileged to lead a school with outstanding students, a dedicated staff, and a supportive community.
For the past five years, I have served as a school administrator at The Language Academy Dual Language French and Spanish K-8 School, first as Associate Principal for two years and then Principal for the past three years. I am excited to bring my experience back to Birney. My background in the Primary Years Programme (PYP) and Middle Years Programme (MYP) has always stayed with me, even when I was away from IB. I believe the International Baccalaureate (IB) program empowers students to take control of their learning, fostering academic and personal growth. Witnessing students develop agency over their education is truly inspiring. I am thrilled to contribute to Birney's continued success.
As an educator and administrator, I believe that every student has the ability to learn, regardless of their current level. I strive to inspire every child to believe in their capacity for learning. I advocate for students, ensuring they feel seen and heard academically and socio-emotionally. My overarching goal is to support the academic and social-emotional growth of students, families, and staff.
I look forward to being in classrooms and getting to know the students. My goal is to learn all of their names. It is a challenging goal, but I will do my best to reach it. I am excited to continue to build upon the strong foundation already in place and look forward to a fantastic school year full of collaboration and growth. I can't wait to meet all of you.
Sincerely,
Ms. Graciela Rosas
Incoming Principal, Alice Birney IB Elementary
P.S. Feel free to reach out now or later [email protected]