Carpenter Elementary Community,

I am excited that the Wake County School Board has announced me as the new Principal of Carpenter Elementary, and I am honored to follow in the footsteps of Dr. Jones as she begins her well-deserved retirement in a couple weeks. My primary goal is to continue building upon the traditions and strong foundation that Carpenter has established over the years.

Growing up in Charlotte, NC, I always knew that I wanted to be a teacher when I got older, and that was solidified when I attended Meredith College. I graduated from Meredith with a BA in English and licensure to teach 9-12. My first teaching job was at Green Hope High School. After teaching for 11 years, I was ready for a new challenge and attended NC State University and earned my Master of School Administration. Fortunately, an assistant principal job at Green Hope opened, so I stayed at Green Hope until 2019 when I decided to broaden my experiences and become an assistant principal at Reedy Creek Magnet Middle.

At the center of my educational philosophy is student-centered learning, where each child is celebrated for their unique strengths and talents. I am committed to creating an inclusive and equitable environment where every student feels valued and encouraged each day while learning.

I look forward to meeting you and your children soon, and together, we will create a safe, nurturing, and educational environment for all Carpenter students.  I eagerly anticipate joining the Carpenter family and the opportunity to work collaboratively with each of you. Please do not hesitate to reach out to me with any questions. Together, we will continue to make Carpenter Elementary School a place where every student is a Collaborative, Achieving, Respectful, Year-round leader.

Warm Regards,

Kim Collins