BACKGROUND:

I obtained a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Elementary Education from Purdue North Central and a Master’s Degree in Educational Administration from Purdue Calumet.  My experiences include being a paraprofessional for special needs children, a scout leader, and a parent volunteer.  I also worked as a substitute teacher for several years while attending college,  and was a Title I teacher for six years before becoming an administrator.

PHILOSOPHY:

I cannot think of a career that is more satisfying and challenging than an educational administrator.  I view myself as a facilitator and role model for all stakeholders.  I counsel students and give them strategies for personal growth and positive choices, contacting parents for support and guidance.  I work collaboratively with staff members, coaching them on professional growth goals, and keeping everyone focused on a common vision of improving student achievement through professional learning communities.   I keep myself and others current on educational issues, best classroom practices, and school improvement strategies through short presentations, study groups, articles, and updated resources.  I try to instill in my students and staff a positive outlook on learning, as I believe learning is a life-long process.

Marsha Tappan

Principal

Niemann Elementary School